•  
  •  

Symptoms of Stress and Sleep Problems

If you are having ongoing sleep problems, consider whether you may be under a lot of stress. Stress is a normal part of everyday life, but an increase in stress can cause physical and emotional problems. Symptoms of stress include:

  • Problems sleeping or a change in your sleep pattern.
  • Headache, stiff neck, or nagging backache.
  • Rapid breathing or rapid heart rate.
  • Sweaty palms.
  • Upset stomach.
  • Irritability.
  • Fatigue.
  • Inability to concentrate, to remember, or to make decisions.

Changes in life's expectations or demands may lead to stress. Changes in marriage or other relationships, work, financial problems, or family obligations all may increase stress. It is important to evaluate all aspects of your life, because stress can build up over time. If you think that stress is causing your sleep problems, work with your doctor to develop a plan to reduce your stress level and promote sleep.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer David Messenger, MD
Last Revised December 13, 2010

Last Revised: December 13, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & David Messenger, MD

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.