Signs and Symptoms of Stress: More Than Just a Feeling

What do you do when you know you are stressed? You want to understand if your preventative activities are controlling stress as they should.  Stress isn’t always just mental; it shows up in your body too. Stress can be both mental and physical, and it can show up in so many different ways.  Maybe you’re just feeling “off”.  Everyone can be affected in different ways.  There are even more symptoms listed below.  Generally, after a period, we know what we can see, but what we can’t see makes it scarier.  You can start to get back on track by being aware of your symptoms, obtaining some useful lab tests, and requesting the appropriate specialists.

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Stress can show up differently for everyone, but here are some common red flags:

• Physical signs: fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, frequent colds, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, or high blood pressure.
• Mental/emotional signs: anxiety, irritability, racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, or feeling overwhelmed.
• Behavioral signs: changes in appetite, disrupted sleep, increased use of alcohol or caffeine, withdrawing from others.

If these symptoms stick around for more than a few weeks—or start affecting your quality of life—it’s worth taking the next step.

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Can You Test for Stress? Yes, and Here’s How

There’s no single “stress test,” but there are labs that can help assess how your body is coping with prolonged stress:

🔬 1. Cortisol (Stress Hormone)

• What it is: Cortisol is produced by your adrenal glands and helps your body respond to stress. It follows a natural rhythm—highest in the morning and lower at night.
• How it’s tested: Blood, saliva, or urine tests (saliva tests are often preferred for measuring daily rhythms).
• What abnormal levels mean: High cortisol can suggest chronic stress, sleep disorders, or even adrenal issues. Low levels may indicate adrenal fatigue or burnout.

🧪 2. DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

• This hormone helps balance cortisol. Low levels may signal long-term stress and adrenal exhaustion.

🧫 3. Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4)

• Chronic stress can suppress thyroid function, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and mood shifts.

💉 4. Inflammatory Markers (CRP, ESR)

• Ongoing stress can increase inflammation. These markers can reveal hidden stress on the body.

🍬 5. Blood Sugar & Insulin Levels

• Stress can spike blood sugar and insulin resistance. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels give insight into how your body’s managing.

Out of the tests mentioned, I did have a cortisol level tested.  It was high.  Was I surprised?  No, I was not.  High cortisol often goes hand-in-hand with stress and an overwhelming to-do list. I took action and actively worked on that level to make sure it went down. I did add yoga and meditation to my weekly activities, and it did come down. Being aware can help combat the long-term effects on your body.

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Who Should You See About Stress?

Start with a primary care provider (PCP), who can rule out other conditions and order basic labs. Depending on your symptoms, they may refer you to:

• Endocrinologist – if you have hormone-related issues like cortisol imbalance or thyroid dysfunction.
• Psychologist or Licensed Therapist – for talk therapy, especially if your stress is deeply tied to emotional patterns or past trauma.
• Nurse Coach or Health Coach (like me!) – for day-to-day strategies, lab reviews, and personalized wellness plans focused on reducing stress naturally and sustainably.

Sometimes, you have to ask for a different specialty to find out in more detail about what is going on with you.  If you are not fully satisfied with the response from a medical provider, feel free to request a consultation with another specialist. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that, and they may be able to help you.    Remember to get ready and take notes about the visit. Bring someone with you who can help listen and interpret what you are being told. 

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You Deserve to Feel Like Yourself Again

Unchecked stress can quietly affect every part of your health. The good news is that once you know what’s going on inside, you can do something about it. You can get support, adjust your schedule, or make some lifestyle changes—a few options. It is a powerful step toward healing.

If you’re feeling stuck or curious about what your labs are saying, let’s talk. There has to be balance and understanding of what is going on in our bodies.  Make one decision and take one step at a time. 

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Solutions for a high cortisol level…

You and your medical provider can work together to create a plan for reducing your cortisol levels.  

This is where health coaching shines as a change helper and helps enlighten what is going on in your situation. When guided by a health coach, personalized strategies are prioritized to move the needle on well-being. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) scores fell 4 points (≈16 %) after an 8-week stress-management + HWC program, while the control group didn’t budge. Participants also reported better sleep and daily routines. For more information about that study, click here.

A health coach works together with you to create a tailored plan that fits your lifestyle, prioritizes achievable goals, and empowers you to take actionable steps at home. By addressing not just the “what” but the “how.” Coaching bridges the gap between intention and sustainable practice, helping you turn recommendations into day-to-day habits that support long-term health.

Lifestyle interventions include:

• Eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Spend time in nature (green space).

Stress management Techniques

• Mindfulness & Meditation
• Deep Breathing & Relaxation Exercises
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—Train your thoughts to transform feelings and actions.

Supplements and Nutrients

• Ashwagandha
• Phosphatidylserine (PS)
• Magnesium
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Medications (When Appropriate)

• High-Cortisol Conditions
• Stress/Anxiety Management

Additional Research-Supported Options

• Acupuncture
• Adaptogenic Herbs (natural plant remedies)

Note:  Very important to remember.  It’s always advisable to speak with your medical provider before starting any supplements or medications. What are your thoughts on getting your lab levels tested to actually see how your body is responding to stress?

I am also available to assist you whenever needed.  Reach out for a discovery call today.  Take one small step at a time.

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