While a certain amount of pressure is a normal part of modern life, healthcare professionals are raising the alarm about a more insidious health threat: chronic stress. Unlike everyday worries, this prolonged state of alert can seriously damage both mental and physical well-being.
What is chronic stress?
We spoke to Dr Michael Zemenides, co-founder of the A–Z General Practice at The Wellington Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, to understand this condition better. Stress is a normal reaction to change or life challenges, he explained. A short burst can even be beneficial, helping us focus before a crucial deadline.
However, the problem begins when this state becomes constant. Dr Zemenides warned that chronic stress occurs when the body remains in a prolonged state of alertness. This happens when we face continuous overstimulation from ongoing pressures, rather than short-term challenges.
The seven key warning signs you shouldn't ignore
Chronic stress often manifests through physical and emotional symptoms that many people dismiss. Recognising these signs early is crucial for preventing long-term health complications.
1. Racing heart and high blood pressure: The body's fight-or-flight response releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. This can cause your heart to race and your blood pressure to rise abnormally.
2. Muscle tension or pain: Ongoing stress keeps muscles, particularly around the neck, shoulders, and back, in a semi-contracted state. Persistent tightness or aches may be your body signalling overload.
3. Tension headaches: This muscle tension often triggers headaches, frequently felt as a band-like pressure around both sides of the head. Stress-related sleep problems can worsen these headaches, creating a vicious cycle of pain and fatigue.
4. Digestive issues: When stressed, the body diverts energy away from digestion. Dr Zemenides notes this slowdown can lead to bloating as gut bacteria produce more gas.
5. Constant anxiety or irritability Chronic stress frequently affects emotions, causing irritability, anger, or feelings of hopelessness. It can also impair your ability to make clear decisions and maintain healthy relationships.
6. Skin rashes: Stress-related hormonal and inflammatory changes can worsen skin conditions, triggering sensitivity, hives, or rashes in some individuals.
7. Changes in appetite: Prolonged stress can disrupt normal eating habits and metabolism. Some people lose their appetite entirely, while others turn to comfort eating.
When should you seek professional help?
Dr Zemenides advises seeking medical advice if these symptoms persist or start interfering with your daily life. If headaches, palpitations, insomnia, or digestive issues aren't improving, it's time to speak with your GP.
He also recommends a practical step before your appointment: keeping a stress diary. Tracking triggers, stress levels, and symptoms in real time helps doctors understand the connection between stress and your physical health.
Although chronic stress is not an official medical diagnosis, it is recognised by healthcare professionals as a serious condition that can coexist with or contribute to anxiety, depression, insomnia, or burnout. Doctors assess it by reviewing symptoms, lifestyle factors, and physical indicators like blood pressure or hormone levels.
Understanding the underlying causes is vital for safeguarding your long-term health. Chronic stress can manifest in subtle but serious ways that should not be ignored. Recognising the signs early and seeking professional advice can protect both your mental and physical well-being.
