Stress and physical health go hand in hand, and any doctor will tell you to find ways to calm down before you cause yourself a serious injury, such as hypertension or IBS. From short-term issues like sore muscles to the physical signs of stress, here is some handy guidance.
Musculoskeletal Issues
Perhaps one of the worst types of pain is musculoskeletal. That's a big word, but all it means is your muscles and bones. Stress can cause you to slouch when sitting and walking with an incorrect posture, and this can cause a lot of muscle and bone issues. If you work in an office and sit at a desk all day, you are also at an increased risk of repetitive strain injury. See this post on how to choose a chiropractor to find the help you need if you experience these issues.
Other Short-Term Issues
There are many other short-term issues that can come from high stress besides sore muscles, joints, and bones. When stress is high, it takes a toll on you mentally and physically, and either way, it is never good. Known as acute symptoms, some of the short-term problems can consist of increased heart rate when resting, an upset stomach and toilet issues, and a general feeling of tiredness, often accompanied by brain fog, any of which can lead to long-term medical issues.
Long-Term Stress and Physical Health
In the US alone, over 194 million people have a chronic (long-term) medical problem. There are many reasons why you can have a chronic issue, such as injury, bad habits like smoking, and even genetics. And there are just as many remedies for feeling better, from CBD products to coffee enemas! However, stress is one of the biggest causes that can lead to issues such as high blood pressure, digestive problems, and even problems with your reproductive system.
The Signs of Too Much Stress
So, how do you know you are under too much stress? You might have noticed some of the physical signs like tiredness, sore muscles, and headaches. But there are other symptoms that can cause serious problems. For example, you might be socially withdrawn and not interact with others the way you usually do. You might also find it hard to enjoy something, and perhaps you aren't eating. These can be serious and lead to destructive behavior like substance abuse.
How to Manage It Better
Stress management is an ongoing process because even the smallest detour can derail your plans. Not everyone is equipped to deal with stress, and some find it very challenging. However, there are some excellent methods that seem to work for most people without the need for treatment or medication. One of the most powerful is relaxation and meditation. This is powerful, combined with physical activity, especially in nature, and getting enough quality sleep.
Summary
Musculoskeletal problems are one of the most common symptoms of stress and poor physical health. However, this is usually temporary, but stress can lead to long-term issues like high blood pressure. You can manage stress with popular methods such as self-care and meditation.
