Digestive Problems
Digestive problems such as constipation and diarrhea can also be as a result of chronic stress. Diarrhea is a condition whereby a person’s stools are abnormally watery or loose. There is an increase in the need to have a bowel movement and a decrease in the bulk of the stool. Constipation is when there’s extreme difficulty in having a bowel movement. The stools may be hard, lumpy or dry and may cause extreme pain and discomfort while trying to pass them. A study of 2,699 children showed that exposure to stressful situations led to an increase in the risk of constipation.
Also, persons with digestive disorders, for example, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may also be affected by stress. These disorders are characterized by bloating, constipation, stomach pain and diarrhea.