Is Stress Causing My Physical Symptoms? Mental Health Impact

Is this caused by stress?

Hello doctor, I was partially forced into anal intercourse by my ex-boyfriend recently.
Although my menstrual period has come, and I have seen a gynecologist, I still feel uncomfortable in my body and am very worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
My heart rate has been unusually fast these past few days, ranging from about 90 to 100 beats per minute (with a minimum of 44 and a maximum of 133 today).
I often feel short of breath, and whenever I have a moment of free time, I start to worry.
I also feel something strange in my abdomen, with some pain, and my throat is not feeling well either.
However, I have taken a pregnancy test and consulted a gynecologist, and everything seems fine, yet I still feel very scared.
I wonder if I have been overwhelmed by too much information online.
At night, I initially sleep well, but around 3 or 4 AM, I start to have shallow sleep.
What should I do?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/09

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Dear Vivian, thank you for your question.
I can tell that this experience has been very distressing for you, and you are understandably concerned about the possibility of pregnancy.
Although objective information indicates that the chances of pregnancy are low, it’s natural to still worry.
Perhaps what you are truly concerned about is the trauma of feeling forced into a situation.
Since the trauma feels too overwhelming for you to accept, your mind may be fixating on the issue of "pregnancy." I suggest discussing your feelings with trusted friends or family and seeking counseling from a mental health professional to further address your emotional trauma and insomnia.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2020/07/09

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of stress and anxiety following a distressing event, which is completely understandable. The symptoms you are describing—such as rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, abdominal discomfort, and sleep disturbances—can indeed be linked to stress and anxiety. When we face traumatic or stressful situations, our bodies can react in various ways, often manifesting physical symptoms that can be quite alarming.

Understanding the Connection Between Stress and Physical Symptoms
Stress activates the body's "fight or flight" response, which is a physiological reaction that prepares us to respond to perceived threats. This response involves the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and muscle tension. In your case, the elevated heart rate (tachycardia) and feelings of breathlessness are common reactions to stress and anxiety.
Moreover, the gastrointestinal system is particularly sensitive to stress. Stress can lead to changes in gut motility, which might explain the discomfort you are feeling in your abdomen. It's also worth noting that anxiety can cause a range of physical symptoms, including throat tightness or discomfort, which you mentioned.

The Role of Anxiety in Your Symptoms
Your concerns about potential pregnancy and the physical symptoms you are experiencing may be exacerbating your anxiety. It's common for individuals who have experienced trauma or distress to become hyper-vigilant about their health, leading to a cycle of worry and physical discomfort. This is often referred to as health anxiety or somatic symptom disorder, where the anxiety about health manifests as physical symptoms, even when medical evaluations show no significant issues.

Coping Strategies
1. Seek Professional Help: It is crucial to talk to a mental health professional who can help you process the trauma you experienced and provide coping strategies. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be very effective in managing anxiety and stress-related symptoms.

2. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being. These techniques can help calm your nervous system and may alleviate some of the physical symptoms you are experiencing.

3. Limit Information Overload: While it’s natural to seek information, especially after a distressing event, excessive research online can lead to increased anxiety. Try to limit your time spent searching for information about your symptoms and focus on trusted sources or consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

4. Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine that includes regular physical activity, healthy eating, and adequate sleep can help stabilize your mood and reduce anxiety. Exercise, in particular, is known to release endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress.

5. Stay Connected: Reach out to friends or family members who can provide support. Talking about your feelings and experiences can be incredibly therapeutic and can help you feel less isolated.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur and any potential triggers. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and develop a more effective treatment plan.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are valid, and it’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of your health. While it may feel overwhelming right now, seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the tools you need to manage your anxiety and improve your overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective treatments available that can help you navigate through this challenging time.

Similar Q&A

Could Stress Be Causing My Unexplained Physical Symptoms?

Hello, may I ask you a question? Recently, due to certain circumstances, I had to take on all the responsibilities of my company. Since then, I have started experiencing health issues. I have been suffering from gastroenteritis that has developed into gastritis, and despite seein...

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Little One: It seems that at such a young age, you have to bear many burdens and feel quite a bit of pressure! There is increasing evidence that when individuals face stress, various systems in the body are affected, including the neuroendocrine system (which involves cortis...

Could Your Physical Symptoms Be Linked to Mental Health Issues?

Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent fatigue and a significant decline in physical strength for a year. I often feel a sense of pressure between my eyebrows, have a stiff neck, feel dizzy, and experience blurred vision. I have already consulted various specialists at the h...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello, Peanut: In order to diagnose a mental disorder, it is essential to rule out any physical issues. Although there is an interplay between the two, the treatment approaches differ. Since all the examinations across various specialties have shown no abnormalities, it is indeed...

The Real Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Physical Health

Hello Dr. Huang, I have recently been experiencing some symptoms of anxiety and depression due to various factors. This morning, I became overly anxious and depressed about certain issues, which led to a sudden feeling of tightness and pain in my left chest, along with a sensati...

Dr. Huang Weiqin reply Psychiatry
Dear Inquirer: Hello. From the perspective of psychosomatic medicine, the physiological (physical) and psychological aspects can influence each other. Therefore, emotional stress such as anxiety, depression, or ruminating thoughts can indeed have adverse effects on bodily organ...

Understanding the Impact of Stress on Mental Health and Complications

Hello, doctor. I often assess my emotional state and categorize it as follows: 1. Since childhood, I would count the telephone poles outside while in the car, and I still occasionally do this. I also tap my foot to a rhythm; if I don't pay attention, I won't do it, bu...

Dr. Dai Wanxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, miss: After reading your description, it seems that there are several emotional distress issues. More details are needed to determine what kind of mental disorder you might be experiencing (it could range from adjustment disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-trauma...