8 Silent Signs Stress Is Making You Sick

You break out in hives

If you’re suddenly covered in itchy red bumps, stress (not allergies) might be to blame. When your body experiences excessive stress (for either a short or long period of time) your immune system gets wonky and your body starts releasing the chemical histamine to fight off your ailment. If the stress doesn’t go away, you essentially develop an allergic reaction and, boom, hives galore. When your immune system is weakened by stress, your skin can also become irritated by things it never used to be sensitive to, such as soap, cold or heat, lotions, or laundry detergent.

WHAT TO DO: Put a cool, damp towel on the affected area. if that doesn’t work, take an antihistamine.

Wish you had more time to relax and de-stress your brain? Try these super-simple, totally healthy de-stressing activities.