As we get ready to begin a whole new year, we tend to take stock on things we’d like to change and improve upon. One of the main causes of lots of health issues comes from stress that we carry in our lives. Financial issues, problems at work or home, health problems and social isolation are just some of the major factors that lead to stress in our lives. It is a crazy world we live in, but we need to find ways to curtail our stress levels in order to keep ourselves healthy for the year ahead. Here are some common symptoms of stress:
- Headaches
- Backaches
- Rapid heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Recurring nightmares
- Irritability
- Loss of concentration
Chronic stress is believed to raise the risk of increased blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic back pain, depression and a reduced immune response. If you find that you are getting stressed on a frequent basis, try some of these ideas:
- Discuss your symptoms and your feelings about them.
- Keep a diary to gain insight into your concerns and emotional patterns.
- Exercise regularly engaging in both aerobic and weight training.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation deep breathing exercises.
- Maintain your immune system by eating well balanced meals, exercising regularly and getting sufficient sleep.
- Avoid destructive behaviors, including overindulgence of alcohol, caffeine or smoking.
Seek professional help if any of your symptoms persist, interfering with your sense of wellbeing and/or your personal/work relationships. You may be prescribed a medication based on your particular symptoms:
Recurrent acute anxiety (episodic anxiety): Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan), or Alprazolin (Xanax).
Depression: Selective serotoninuptake inhibitors: Fluoxetin (Prozac), or Paroxetine (Paxil) or other antidepressant medication.
Insomnia: Zaleplon (Sonata), Zolpiden (Ambien) or Temazapan (Restoril).
If you would like more information about dealing with stress, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today.
Dr. Gunn proudly serves Fullerton and all surrounding areas.