What physical discomforts can tension, fear, and anxiety cause?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

In general, tension, fear, and anxiety are common emotional responses. If prolonged, they may trigger discomfort in multiple body systems, primarily including cardiovascular symptoms, breathing abnormalities, gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological sensory issues, and sleep disorders. Regular physical exercise, deep breathing exercises, and other daily practices can help regulate emotions and reduce the occurrence of such discomfort.

Under normal circumstances, tension, fear, and anxiety are common emotional responses. If prolonged, they may trigger discomfort across multiple body systems, including cardiovascular symptoms, respiratory abnormalities, gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological sensations, and sleep disorders. The details are as follows:

1. Cardiovascular discomfort: When emotionally stressed, the heart is stimulated by the nervous system to beat faster, often accompanied by palpitations or a racing heartbeat. Some individuals may experience chest tightness or pressure, as if something heavy is pressing on the chest. Blood pressure may also fluctuate and rise, leading to dizziness or a feeling of head fullness. These symptoms typically subside once emotions stabilize.

2. Respiratory abnormalities: During states of tension or fear, breathing tends to become rapid and shallow involuntarily, resulting in hyperventilation. This can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or a sensation of suffocation. Some people frequently sigh, attempting to relieve discomfort through deep breaths. In severe cases, an imbalance of carbon dioxide in the body may lead to numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.

3. Gastrointestinal disturbances: Emotional fluctuations can disrupt gastrointestinal function, causing stomach spasms and pain, along with symptoms such as nausea, acid reflux, and belching. Intestinal motility is also affected—some may develop diarrhea or bloating, while others may suffer from constipation due to slowed movement. Discomfort after eating may become more pronounced.

4. Neurological sensory abnormalities: Sympathetic nervous system activation places the body in a state of stress, leading to trembling hands or feet, muscle stiffness, and tension—particularly noticeable in the hands, neck, and shoulders. Some individuals may experience scalp tingling, dizziness, or heightened sensitivity to external stimuli such as sounds or light.

5. Sleep disturbances: Persistent emotional tension makes it difficult for the brain to relax, resulting in trouble falling asleep. Even when sleep is achieved, it may be characterized by frequent dreams and easy awakening, leading to poor sleep quality. Upon waking, individuals often feel exhausted and mentally drained, with difficulty concentrating during the day and possible temporary declines in memory.

In daily life, regular physical exercise and deep breathing exercises can help regulate emotions and reduce physical discomfort. Maintaining a light diet and avoiding excessive intake of stimulants such as coffee and strong tea can support stable bodily functions and alleviate physical reactions caused by emotional stress.

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