What physical symptom is often linked to stress?

Digestive disorders are often linked to stress due to the body’s response to stressful situations. When a person experiences stress, the body initiates a fight-or-flight response, which can affect normal bodily functions, including digestion. This stress response can lead to a range of digestive issues, such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation, and conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Stress can disrupt the balance of digestive enzymes and hormones, which may exacerbate existing conditions or contribute to new issues in the gastrointestinal system.

In contrast, the other options reflect outcomes that are generally contrary to what is typically experienced during periods of stress. Improved sleep quality and decreased illness frequency are not commonly associated with stress, as stress often leads to insomnia and can weaken the immune system. Similarly, stable blood pressure is usually not a characteristic of stress, as stress can lead to elevated blood pressure levels.