Stress and anxiety
Stress can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous.
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, unease, and worry. The source of these symptoms is not always known.
Considerations
Stress is a normal feeling. In small doses, stress can help you get things done. Stress does not affect everyone the same way.
Many people feel stress symptoms in their body. You may be having pain in your abdomen, headaches, and muscle tightness or pain.
When you are very stressed, you may notice:
- A faster heart rate
- Skipped heartbeats
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Dizziness
Other symptoms include:
- Loose stools
- Frequent need to pee
- Dry mouth
- Problems swallowing
You may have a harder time focusing, feel tired most of the time, or lose your temper more often. Stress may also cause sexual problems. It can also cause problems with falling or staying asleep and nightmares.
Causes
Many people have stress when they need to adapt or change.
Examples are:
- Starting a new job or school
- Moving to a new home
- Getting married
- Having a child
- Breaking up with someone
An injury or illness to you, a friend, or a loved one is a common cause of stress. Feelings of stress and anxiety are common in people who feel depressed and sad.
Some drugs may cause or worsen symptoms of stress.
These can include:
- Some inhaler medicines used to treat asthma
- Thyroid drugs
- Some diet pills
- Some cold remedies
Caffeine, cocaine, alcohol, and tobacco products may also cause or make symptoms of stress or anxiety worse.
When these feelings happen often, a person may have an anxiety disorder. Other problems where stress may be present are:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)