Physical Ailments That May Develop From Excessive Stress in Your Life

We all go through stressful times; the loss of a loved one or job, financial problems and other events are universal. However, you may not know what it is quietly (or not so quietly) doing to the rest of your body. Here are some examples:

Appetite Problems: This can go either way. In many of us, the idea of eating becomes repugnant. You have to force yourself to eat on a regular basis, and may need to use some sort of distraction to allow you to get the food down. Others come to food as a source of comfort. Often, foods high in fat, cholesterol or sugar are craved, and the struggle that comes about is in avoiding these cravings.

Headaches: Tension in the neck and shoulders can result in some nasty headaches that don't always respond to a pain killer. If this occurs, massage, heat and a long soak in a hot tub may be your best bet.

Heart Disease and High Blood Pressure: There is a strong relationship between stress and these conditions. If your stressor is long term, see your doctor. If you already have either condition, that becomes even more important. It could mean that what you are taking is no longer strong enough to keep your numbers in a healthy range.

Lowered Resistance: It will be much easier to catch whatever's going around if you are dealing with this issue. Use caution if you decide to improve your immune system with echinacea, as it cannot be taken for more than two weeks straight.

Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea: This can happen with both short and long term areas, but is more likely in long term. Don't be surprised if the vomiting is explosive in nature. Watching what you eat and drink could help prevent some of the worst episodes. Watch fats, sugar and sodium.

Weight Gain/Loss: This goes back to the appetite problem. If you are dealing with that, this is the possible result. It will take work to avoid this aspect of stress problems.

Long term stress may require the help of your doctor. Medications can help calm you, and counseling could help you find ways around it. Getting this help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of intelligence and a desire to remain healthy. If you are on medications or have any medical conditions on top of this, make sure the doctor knows as it may change which methods chosen.