Signs of Stress

General irritability, hyperactivity or depression
Pounding of the heart
Dryness in the mouth and throat
Emotional instability; strong urges to run or fight
Inability to concentrate, Confusion
Accident proneness
Feelings of weakness or dizziness
Fatigue
Floating anxiety or panic feelings for no known reason
Emotional tension, alertness or feelings of being keyed up
Trembling, nervous tics
High pitched, nervous laughter
Sleeping problems
Nightmares
Grinding teeth
Frequent need to urinate
Stomach and bowel problems, indigestion, pain, nausea, constipation or diarrhea
Loss of or excessive appetite
Migraine or tension headaches
Neck or lower back pain
Increased smoking
Alcohol or drug problems, including tobacco (nicotine), tranquilizers, sleeping pills and caffeine

From: The Stress of Life by Hans Selye MD.

Next: Coping with Health Problems or Stress

What is stress?
How does stress affect the body?
Signs of Stress
Coping with Health Problems or Stress
Relaxation Techniques
Assertive Communication Rights
How does relaxation look to an EEG (electroencephalogram)?

A Guidebook to Coping with Health Problems and Stress
By Jon Seskevich RN, BSN, BA, CHTP, Nurse Clinician, Duke University Health System