In this article, we’ll begin to unpack the hidden symptoms of stress—from jaw pain to digestive issues—and share ways to respond to them with care.
Jaw Pain or Teeth Grinding
Have you ever woken up with jaw pain or a headache and brushed it off as just a bad night’s sleep? It might actually be stress. Stress often causes unconscious teeth grinding (bruxism), especially while you sleep.
This happens because stress triggers your body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that increase muscle tension—even in your jaw.Over time, this tension can cause involuntary teeth grinding, often without you even realizing it. If you’ve noticed sore jaw muscles, headaches, or even damage to your teeth, stress could be the hidden culprit. Recognizing this can help you take the right steps to manage it. (Mind, NeuroLaunch.com)
Muscle Tension and Low Back Pain
Do you often feel tightness in your neck, shoulders, or lower back by the end of the day? Stress could be to blame. It frequently manifests as muscle tension, particularly in these areas, and is often mistaken for poor posture or physical strain. But in reality, it’s connected to your body’s stress response and the release of cortisol and adrenaline.This muscle tension is actually a protective mechanism—your body’s way of guarding against perceived threats. But when stress becomes a constant, your muscles can end up in a permanent state of tension. This can lead to muscle fatigue, spasms, and even chronic pain in your lower back. If you’ve been dismissing this pain as just “normal” after a long day, it might be time to rethink that. (Spine-health, The American Institute of Stress)
Chest Pain
Feeling a sudden, sharp pain in your chest can be terrifying. While it’s a serious symptom that should never be ignored, it’s worth considering that stress could be the cause—especially if there are no other indicators of heart disease.
When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol and adrenaline, which not only increase muscle tension but also make your heart work harder. This can cause chest pain that feels sharp or stabbing, often during moments of intense anxiety or even panic attacks. If you’ve ever felt this kind of pain and worried it was a heart attack, you’re not alone. Understanding that stress might be to blame is the first step to managing it better. (Verywell Health)
Digestive Issues
Have you ever experienced stomach aches, bloating, or indigestion during stressful periods? You’re not imagining things. Stress can increase stomach acid production, leading to digestive problems such as heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation.
When you’re stressed, your body prioritizes dealing with immediate threats by diverting energy away from non-essential functions like digestion. This diversion can cause irregular muscle contractions in the GI tract, leading to cramping, bloating, or even ulcers. (American Psychological Association)
It’s Okay to Struggle—But Don’t Ignore Your Mental Well-being
To feel overwhelmed during tough times is completely normal. But it’s also important to take care of your mental well-being—because when your mind is at ease, your body won’t have to bear the extra burden.
At Bear Room, we regularly update the app to offer new ways to manage stress effectively. Today, our product includes a variety of practices and even specialized practice sets designed to help you reach your goals—whether it’s calming anxiety or simply taking a moment to breathe. Even a few minutes each day can make a huge difference, helping you regain balance and feel more in control of your life.