Stress is a fact of life for most of us. Some level of stress can actually be beneficial, but too much can wreak havoc on our health and wellness.

And let’s be honest—many of us are feeling stressed right now. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Easley would like to take a few minutes to talk about how stress affects the body and how can you manage it.

What Does Too Much Stress Do to the Body?

We talked above about how stress does have some positives. A small amount of stress can help to motivate you to tackle assignments and daily tasks.

But too much stress—or chronic stress—can have dangerous consequences. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that can affect your body both physically and mentally. You may experience a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, and you’ll also be at a higher risk of developing serious medical conditions, like heart disease.

Symptoms of Stress

• Low energy
• Headaches
• Upset stomach, including diarrhea, constipation and nausea
• Aches, pains and tense muscles
• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Frequent colds and infections

What Are Some Ways to Better Manage Stress?

Since stress is a normal part of life, you have to find ways to manage it effectively. Your ultimate goal is to make it more bearable, so that you don’t face stress-related symptoms.

How can you do that? Well, it all starts with a healthy lifestyle. Practicing healthy lifestyle habits can help ensure your body is strong enough to withstand some stress, and the habits themselves can also help you cope with stress. Exercise, for example, counteracts stress hormones with positive endorphins.

Ways to Reduce Stress

• Eat a healthy diet filled with fruits and veggies and lean protein.
• Find effective ways of relieving stress, like meditation or a hobby.
• Get enough quality sleep at night, aiming for seven to nine hours.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Don’t smoke.

Are you feeling under the weather? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Easley today for a diagnosis and treatment plan.