Do you have any of these symptoms? Stress-related symptoms -- The American Academy of Family Physicians reported that 60 percent of presenting problems at physicians’ offices in this country are stress-related. 95 million Americans suffer some stress-related symptom each week and take some medication for the discomfort (Nathan, Staats, & Rosch, 1987). The following is a list of common stress symptoms:
Alcohol use
Increased smoking
Anxiety
Jaw pain
Blushing
Lightheadedness
Chest pain
Lowered sexual desire or performance
Chills
Migraine headaches
Cold, sweaty hands
Moodiness
Constant fatigue
Muscle tension and pain
Constipation
Nausea
Depression
Nervous diarrhea
Dizziness
Night sweats
Drug use
Nightmares
Dry mouth
Overeating
Faintness
Overreaction to small things
Forgetfulness
Panic
Frequent anger and frustration
Poor concentration
Frequent colds or flu
Problems swallowing
Frequent crying spells
Rashes
Frequent urination
Reduced work efficiency or productivity
Frowning
Ringing in ears
Gambling or spending
Shortness of breath without exercising
Gritting or grinding of teeth
Stomach cramps
Heartburn
Tension headaches
Hives
Trembling
Increased perspiration
Worry
This is not a complete list. These symptoms can have other causes which may involve some disease process. Check with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms before starting a stress reduction program. However, if your doctor rules out other possible causes, you have hope that you can take control of your symptoms and stress and reduce them. Practicing one of more of the following exercises on a regular basis can enhance and maintain wellness.
If you have one or more of the above symptoms, try one of these stress reducers:
