Do you feel that you experience high levels of stress in your daily life? There can be many aspects of our lives that can lead to stress. Anything from work to financial difficulty to family issues to a full schedule can all lead to added stress. Unfortunately, when we are under significant stress, the effects can come out in our bodies. It is not uncommon for people to experience weight gain, high blood pressure, and tense muscles. Many people also develop issues with the TMJ due to high stress. Read on to learn more about how stress can negatively impact your TMJ disorder and ways you can help.
How to Help Reduce Stress
We live in a time where there are endless reasons that can add stress to your day. Some people can handle a lot in their schedule and adjust to changes and surprises in their lives easily, while others have a difficult time managing what needs to be done. When stress levels rise in the body, it is common for two things to occur: the body and muscles become tense and blood pressure rises. Tense facial muscles can lead to the development of TMJ disorders or can aggravate symptoms if you have already been diagnosed. There are certain changes you can make to better deal with your level of stress:
Determine What Causes Stress
If you regularly experience stress in your life, it is important to learn more about what triggers your feelings. Document the times of day and activities that are most stressful. This will help you mentally prepare for certain times and events and better control how you react to them.
Exercise Regularly
Moving your body through exercise can help reduce stress. Even something as simple as a brisk daily walk can help with relaxation and improve your mood.
Limit Caffeine
As much as you may enjoy drinking multiple cups of coffee or soft drinks a day, the added caffeine is not helping if you experience stress. It can create jittery feelings and add to being tense.
If you feel that added stress is affecting your daily life and causing complications with your TMJ disorder or sleep apnea treatment, be sure to reach out to us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to serve patients in the western New York areas as well as Canada.
