The pain in my neck, shoulders and upper nape often causes migraines, dizziness and heatstroke. All my ailments are accompanied by poor digestion. I’m told it’s due to my anxiety. Is it possible for anxiety to cause so many problems?

Yes, anxiety can cause or aggravate neck pain, migraines, dizziness and digestive disorders. When a person is anxious, their body remains in a state of tension. This muscular tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, is a frequent cause of tension headaches, or can trigger migraine attacks in predisposed individuals.

Anxiety can also disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms often observed in cases of intense or chronic stress, such as hot flushes or dizziness. It also has a direct impact on the digestive system. The link between the brain and the intestine is well-documented: in times of stress, it is common to experience bloating, abdominal pain or transit disorders.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any medical cause. If anxiety is to blame, approaches such as therapy, relaxation or hypnosis can help relieve migraines and improve your general well-being.

References

• Buse, D. C., Andrasik, F., & Lipton, R. B. Psychological factors associated with migraine and tension-type headache.
• Peres, M. F. P., Zukerman, E., Senne Soares, C. A., & Bernik, M. A. Anxiety and depression in chronic migraine.
• Gros DF, Antony MM, McCabe RE, Swinson RP. Frequency and severity of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome across the anxiety disorders and depression.