Are you frequently overwhelmed, exhausted, or constantly on edge? Do you have unexplained health problems that seem to have no clear cause? If you can relate to these experiences, you may be dealing with excessive stress.
Stress has become an integral part of our lives, and it’s important not to underestimate its impact on our overall well-being. While we typically associate stress with major life events, it’s the silent symptoms that can quietly deteriorate our health.
In this Stress SOS guide, we’ll uncover the silent symptoms of excessive stress that tend to slip under the radar. Whether you relate to these experiences or are curious about your own well-being, keep reading to gain a better understanding of the subtle ways stress might be affecting you.
Let’s dive in!
Weight Gain Around the Midsection
One subtle sign of excessive stress is weight gain around the midsection. Stress triggers cravings for carbohydrates and fat, leading to stress eating and weight gain.
Chronic elevated cortisol levels can also disrupt insulin function, resulting in higher blood sugar levels. This, in turn, causes cells to send hunger signals to the brain, leading to increased eating and weight gain.
Awful Period Cramps
Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, particularly affecting progesterone production. When cortisol levels remain high, the body prioritizes cortisol production over progesterone, resulting in a deficiency.
This hormonal imbalance can cause intense menstrual cramps, heavier bleeding, irregular periods, and other related symptoms.
Achy Jaw
Stress-induced tension can lead to jaw clenching and grinding during sleep and while awake. Elevated cortisol levels deplete the body of magnesium, increasing muscle tension. This can manifest as jaw pain, soreness, or stiffness.
Stomach Aches and Digestive Issues
Excessive stress disrupts enzyme and stomach acid production, leading to difficulties in digesting food. This can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea, and constipation.
Additionally, cortisol’s impact on the immune system can make individuals more susceptible to bacterial and yeast overgrowth in the intestines, potentially leading to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Difficulty Falling Asleep and Staying Asleep
High cortisol levels can interfere with sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Cortisol and adrenaline increase alertness, preventing restful sleep and inhibiting deep sleep levels. Prolonged stress can also lead to adrenal fatigue, resulting in low cortisol levels and disrupted sleep cycles.
Symptom of Excessive Stress having difficulty sleeping.
Acne
Acne is another symptom of excessive stress. This is because stress hormones, particularly cortisol, can increase oil production and hormone levels associated with acne. Stress eating, often involving processed foods high in sugar, fat, or carbohydrates, can exacerbate acne symptoms.
Low Libido
Chronic stress can deplete sex hormone levels as the body diverts resources toward stress hormone production. This depletion can lead to low libido and issues with arousal. Stress-related distractions, anxiety, and depression can further diminish libido.
Brain Fog
Prolonged exposure to cortisol is linked to impaired memory and cognitive function. Even small elevations in cortisol can negatively impact attention, problem-solving abilities, and overall mental clarity.
Sweet Tooth
During times of stress, the brain requires more energy to function properly. Carbohydrates and sugar provide quick energy sources, leading to cravings for sweets like chocolate. Additionally, cortisol’s effect on insulin and blood sugar can leave cells starved, triggering hunger signals and a desire for sugary foods.
Tiredness/Exhaustion
Whether cortisol levels are excessively high or low, both scenarios can result in fatigue and feelings of tiredness. Cortisol disruptions can cause symptoms of fatigue, particularly observed between 3-5 pm. Disrupted sleep patterns due to cortisol imbalances can also contribute to feelings of exhaustion.
Managing Excessive Stress for Better Well-being
A woman relaxing while sitting on the couch.
Recognizing the silent symptoms of excessive stress is the first step toward effective stress management. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce stress and improve your overall well-being:
- Prioritize Self-Care: Take time for self-care activities that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This can include regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy nutrition, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-reflection.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries: Learn to say no when you feel overwhelmed and prioritize your own well-being. Set boundaries in both your personal and professional life to avoid excessive stress and burnout.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professionals for support. Talking about your stress and seeking guidance can provide valuable insights and help alleviate the burden.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, the symptoms of excessive stress can escalate, reaching a point where professional intervention is necessary. If you find that persistent physical or emotional symptoms are impacting your daily life.
In that case, it is important to take a proactive step and seek the help of a healthcare professional or therapist. They can provide the support and guidance you need to regain control of your well-being.
Wrapping Up
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the silent symptoms of excessive stress. Recognize, acknowledge, and embrace strategies to manage stress, ensuring a healthier, more resilient you. Remember, your well-being is worth the investment of time and attention.
