Stress and anxiety disorders affect millions of people globally, and the effects can be far-reaching. Apart from affecting mental health, stress and anxiety disorders also have physical effects on the body.

Here are some of the most common physical effects of stress and anxiety disorders:.

1. Headaches

Stress and anxiety can cause physical tension in the body, which can manifest as frequent headaches. The tension can cause muscles to tighten hence leading to tension headaches. Stress-induced migraines are also common in people with anxiety disorders.

2. Stomach issues

Stress and anxiety can lead to various stomach issues such as stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion.

This is because the body responds to anxiety by releasing stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, leading to changes in digestive patterns and decreases in stomach blood flow.

3. Heart problems

Chronic stress and anxiety can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Stress releases adrenaline that causes the heart to beat faster, and long-term exposure can lead to ongoing heart problems such as high blood pressure and arrhythmias.

4. Muscle pain

Stress and anxiety often cause people to experience physical tension that results in muscle pain. People with anxiety disorders may experience chronic muscle tension, leading to persistent pain and discomfort.

5. Skin issues

Anxiety disorders can cause visual skin problems such as acne, hives, psoriasis, and eczema. Stress-induced symptoms such as excessive sweating and oil production can cause these issues to flare up, leading to long-term skin problems.

6. Sleep disturbances

Stress and anxiety can affect sleep patterns, leading to sleep disturbances such as insomnia.

People with anxiety disorders may find it hard to fall or stay asleep or wake up frequently during sleep, leading to chronic fatigue, sleep deprivation, and other sleep-related problems.

7. Respiratory problems

Anxiety disorders can cause respiratory problems such as shortness of breath, hyperventilation, and panic attacks. Hyperventilation caused by anxiety can lead to feelings of lightheadedness, dizziness, and blurred vision.

8. Immune system compromise

Stress and anxiety can compromise the immune system by reducing the number of cells and hormones that fight off infections. This can make people with anxiety disorders more susceptible to illnesses, infections, and diseases.

9. Weight changes

Stress and anxiety can lead to weight gain or weight loss. Increased cortisol levels caused by stress can lead to increased fat storage, especially around the belly region, leading to obesity.

Anxiety-induced loss of appetite can also lead to weight loss and malnutrition.

10. Reproductive issues

Chronic stress can affect reproductive health in both men and women. For men, stress and anxiety can lead to reduced testosterone levels, lower sperm count, and erectile dysfunction.

For women, stress and anxiety can cause irregular periods, reduced libido, and fertility problems.

Conclusion

Stress and anxiety disorders can have far-reaching physical effects on the body. The effects differ from person to person and can be both short-term and long-term.

Getting help for stress and anxiety disorders can help manage and reduce the physical effects on the body.