We all experience stress at some point in our life. However, when stress plays a role in our daily lives more often than not, that is when stress can begin to take a toll on our overall health.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego wants you to learn the signs of stress, as well as ways you can better manage symptoms.

How Does Stress Affect Your Health?

While some might just assume stress affects your mood, stress can actually affect your overall health in more ways than one.

For instance, stress doesn’t only affect your mental health and your behavior—it can also increase your risk of health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and heart disease.

Symptoms of Stress

• Low energy
• Headaches
• Upset stomach
• Aches and pains
• Tense muscles
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Frequent colds

Can Stress Cause Body Aches?

Stress can most certainly cause your muscles to tense, which can lead to back and shoulder pain and headaches. Therefore, it is important to manage/prevent your stress symptoms in order to regain your quality of life!

Ways to Manage Stress

• Avoid caffeine or at least limit intake.
• Get regular exercise.
• Obtain better quality sleep.
• Try relaxation techniques.
• Keep a diary.
• Learn how to better manage your time.

Is it stress or something more? Visit AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego for a medical evaluation to ensure an underlying medical issue isn’t to blame.