In order to manage stress, it is important to recognize the symptoms of stress. When we are under stress, the body is constantly adjusting to external stimuli in order to keep body conditions stable. During the stress response, our bodies can experience a number of symptoms, including:

• anger
• chest pain
• headaches
• heart palpitations
• irritability
• joint pain
• sweating
• muscle tension
• upset stomach
• shortness of breath

We can experience these symptoms in response to a number of factors, including a work deadline, a traffic jam or a first date.

Complications of Chronic Stress
People can experience chronic stress from such situations as caring for a sick loved one, poverty and unhealthy relationships. Chronic stress can also result from years in a high-pressure job.

Symptoms of chronic stress include:

• anxiety
• backaches
• depression
• fatigue
• headaches
• insomnia
• muscle tension
• frequent infections

When a person experiences chronic stress, stress symptoms can lead to a number of serious health complications, including:

• diabetes
• stroke
• heart disease
• eating disorders
• high blood pressure
• immune system disorders