The Everyday Symptoms of Stress

A stress response to an immediate threat or danger is a normal, natural and necessary. However, it becomes a problem when it's still present after the threat/danger has passed, especially if it lasts for a length of time. This is when stress moves from acute (a quick response which also passes quickly) to chronic (continues and gets worse).

Many of us are living constantly in a stress response and aren't even aware of it because this state has become "normal". The longer this goes on and if the severity of the stress response increases, the greater the negative effect on your body and mind.

Some everyday, common symptoms of stress

These symptoms can also indicate a physical illness so it's always good to get new, persistent, or severe symptoms checked out medically.

• Jaw tension

• Lower back pain without injury

• Teeth grinding especially during sleep

• Tension headaches

• Tight neck and shoulders

• Heart pounding in your ears

• Chest tightness

• Shallow, rapid breathing

• Feeling short of breath

• Churning or "butterflies" in your stomach

• Loss of appetite

• Comfort eating

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) flare-ups

• Heartburn or acid reflux flare-ups

• Frequent colds or infections

• Feeling tired all the time despite adequate sleep

• Skin issues e.g. eczema, psoriasis, and acne flare-ups

• Lying awake at night, replaying conversations or worrying

• Racing thoughts

• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

If you're feeling stressed or anxious reading this, here's a quick and easy breathing exercise you can do right now to help calm your nervous system.

When to Contact Your GP Urgently

Seek immediate medical attention (GP, NHS 111, or A&E) if you experience:

• severe chest pain

• sudden severe headache

• unexplained rapid weight loss

• persistent vomiting

• significant changes in bowel habits lasting more than two weeks

• suicidal thoughts (call Samaritans on 116 123 immediately)

Most stress symptoms don’t reach this level, but if you’re uncertain, it’s always safer to check.

When to Book a GP Appointment

If:

• physical symptoms persist beyond two weeks despite self-care efforts

• physical symptoms interfere significantly with work or daily activities

• you’re relying on alcohol or drugs to cope

• sleep problems continue for more than a month

• you experience frequent panic attacks

• symptoms get progressively worse

Self-Care and Stress Management Techniques

There is a tremendous amount of great information online, from physical relaxation exercises, cognitive and psychological techniques, advice about healthy eating, exercise and sleeping habits, and talking therapies, to help you manage acute and chronic stress levels.

If you prefer a natural and holistic approach there are many options too e.g. acupuncture, reflexology, reiki, homeopathy and of course, the Bach flower remedies, to name just a few.

The Bach flower remedies are particularly helpful because they can be safely taken alongside any other treatment and medication. A harmonious and balanced range of stress management techniques is often more effective.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help.