Stress is a part of everyday life. However, experiencing too many stressful situations over
a short period of time or being in a continuous state of high stress can have a serious
impact on your health.
Muscle tension and pain are common symptoms. Neck, shoulder, and back are frequent problem areas. Headaches can also be triggered or exacerbated by stress.Indigestion, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea can be stress-related.
Stress is linked to several digestive disorders, such as gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Chronic stress can lead to sleep disturbances such as insomnia or poor sleep quality.
Stress can result in low energy, fatigue, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating.
Mood can be adversely affected. Some individuals feel anxious or irritable, become easily frustrated or lose their temper more often. Others may worry too much or battle with increased feelings of fear and sadness.
Stress can lead to high blood pressure and adversely affect cardiovascular health.
Due to the effects on the immune system, individuals may be more susceptible to colds and flus, and symptoms of asthma and allergies become more severe.
Stress can affect the reproductive system, resulting in menstrual disorders, infertility or sexual dysfunction.
Appetite can be affected by stress. Some individuals are more hungry, while others don't feel like eating. Eating behaviors may also be influenced by stressful situations. Maintaining a healthy weight becomes a challenge. Smoking may become a coping response for high stress. This addictive behaviour increases the risk for a number of deadly conditions including emphysema, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Unlike conventional medicine which tends to separate the body into several functional
systems in order to diagnose and treat disease, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
analyzes each person as a whole and observes the interaction and interdependence of all
the body systems. TCM also recognizes the mind-body relationship and takes into account
the importance of emotions on the physiological function and physical well-being of an
individual.
An over-stressed person often suffers from several symptoms simultaneously, for example,
headaches, indigestion, and irritability. TCM diagnosis focuses on determining the
underlying imbalance or disharmony in the body. Treatment targets the root problem. After
a series of treatments with acupuncture and herbs, the patient will feel relief in multiple
areas and experience improved functioning.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy can help you rise above the adverse health
effects that come with life in a fast-paced and stressful world.
Stress
