Sneaky symptoms of stress
The influenza season is just getting started -- it peaks December through February -- but if you find yourself contending with aches and pains, weariness, headaches and trouble sleeping, you may think you've come down with the flu. But maybe not.
Turns out that symptoms of acute and chronic stress can be mistaken for the flu and other infections, making it harder for you to figure out what's going on emotionally and physically and find solutions (there are good ones!).
According to Harvard Medical School, there are many stress symptoms that can be mistaken for physical maladies. Chest pains, stomach aches and indigestion may knock you off your feet -- and send you scrambling for over-the-counter solutions or medical treatments that don't address the underlying cause. And over time, chronic stress can contribute to the development of serious cardiovascular disease and digestive disorders, weaken your immune system and speed up dementia, arthritis and other forms of disability and premature aging.
Let me emphasize this: Managing stress with meditation, exercise, a strong posse, a sense of purpose, and a healthy diet is essential for a younger ActualAge and a long, happy, healthy lifespan. If you suspect your physical symptoms are from stress, ask your doctor for a referral for a psychotherapist or go online to the American Psychological Association's APA Psychologist Locator (locator.apa.org). And look into adopting the stress-reducing techniques outlined in my books, "The RealAge Workout" and the "What to Cook When Cookbook" (yes, diet can help control stress), and through the free newsletter available at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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