Stress, Signs & How To Deal

"Anxiety can cause hormonal, immunological, and muscular changes that can occur silently at first," explains Bruce Rabin, MD, PhD, medical director of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Healthy Lifestyle Program.

So, don't ignore the signs of stress!

Sore and/or Bleeding Gums:"Tension weakens your immune system, which can allow bacteria in the mouth to gain more of a foothold and eventually cause gum irritation and inflammation," explains Kimberly A. Harms, DDS.

Memory Loss: Write things down, it will stress you less and you'll be able to remember the important stuff!

Horrible Cramps: Take ibprofin and use a heating pad.  Try a mild muscle relaxant like Midol.

Crazy Dreams: Write down your dreams and try to make sense of them.  You may realize something you feel bad about, something you forgot about and focus on how you felt in the dream.....if you can't, don't read too much into them or stress about them too much.

Hives: One of the most common signs and symptoms of stress in adults is hives.  Stress can release histamines into the body, resulting in hives.  Take an antihistamine, an oatmeal bath and cool compresses.  If that doesn't work, talk to your doctor about anti-anxiety meds.

Jaw Pain: Caused by clenching or grinding your teeth, either when you're awake or asleep.  If you notice it while you're awake, try chewing gum or relaxing your jaw, taking deep breaths while your mouth is open and tense.

Extreme Fatigue: Exercise, talk about it (even if it's to the dog), write down troubles....and cut back on caffeine.  Just the equivalent of 4 cups of coffee a day can effect you like extreme stress.


Stress BUSTERS 

• Find Zen with YOGA
• Get a Massage
• Break for Tea
• Spend time with your favorite animal
• Take a Walk
•  Write in a journal
• Spend time with HAPPY People
• Engage in your favorite hobby: paint, dance, hunt, fish...
• Listen to Music