Symptoms of Stress

Regardless of the chemical or radiation involved, acute and chronic stress reactions to perceived exposures have universal similarities (Table 2-2). The array of acute responses to such events was shown after a chemical disaster at Norway s largest paint factory in 1976 (Weisaeth 1989). Many victims completely lost the capacity to think and perceive. Some became stupified, torpid, and completely motionless. Others ran in uncontrolled flight or developed stereotyped actions. A few became leaders and led terrified victims to safety. 

Disaster victims may show symptoms of acute stress disorder as defined by DSM-IV-TR. Some individuals develop acute responses when they learn of past chronic exposure. Others may attribute stress symptoms to physiological effects of the chemical agent (Weisaeth 1994). Symptoms also can result from ordinary stressful events following a major disaster (Soloman and Canino 1990). The acute phase of stress may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder or other mood disorder symptoms. Outcome varies with the degree of disaster training, the severity of the threat, and the amount of control experienced by the individual (Weisaeth 1994). Predictors of poorer outcomes include lack of community involvement and poor social supports and communication (Weisaeth 1994). Self-blaming for the trauma predicts better outcome by maintaining the illusion of control (Solomon and Smith 1994). 

Nonclinical responses also can develop. These responses consist of changes in attitudes, beliefs, values, or lifestyle. Such responses 

Chronic Posttraumatic stress disorder similar but persistent symptoms as those described for acute stress disorder 

Other Bereavement, occupational problems, relational problems, malingering, stress-related physiological factors affecting medical condition (American Psychiatric Association 2000) 

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There is limited evidence that moderate use of alcohol might have some advantages. For example, it may promote relaxation and lessen symptoms of stress. But the disadvantages greatly outweigh any advantages, especially when alcohol is used in excess ... 

Lesaca, T. (1996). Symptoms of stress disorder and depression among trauma counselors after an airline disaster. Psychiatric... 

Low level chronic exposme to mercury vapour can also affect the peripheral nervous system, leading to pol)meuropathy (reduced sensory and motor nerve function) and neuropsychological symptoms of stress and behaviour problems. Longer exposures, around 15 years, have been shown in several studies to lead to alterations in pulse rate, blood pressure, memory, sleep disturbance and EEGs, probably as a result of kidney and CNS (central nervous system) dysfunction. 

The psychological symptoms of stress are disturbed concentration, impaired memory, impaired decision making, tension and aggression, sleep disturbance, and, in severe cases, mood change. 

Observing work team members for symptoms of exposure or stress... 

Are employees familiar with medieal surveillanee requirements and reeognition of signs and symptoms that indieate overexposure to hazards (ineluding signs and symptoms of heat stress) [OSHA Referenee, 120(e)(2)(vi)]... 

Have employees ever informed site management that they have expe-rieneed signs and symptoms of heat stress ... 

Reviews the signs and symptoms of possible adverse reactions and impaired respiratory function, including changes in cough, color and amount of sputum, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing and stresses the need to notify health care provider at once should any occur. 

Mr. Elliott, age 42 years, had a UTI8 weeks ago. He failed to see his primary health care provider for a follow-up urine sample 2 weeks after completing his course of drug therapy. Mr. Elliot is in to see his primary health care provider because his symptoms of a UTI have recurred. The primary health care provider suspects that Mr. Elliott may not have followed instructions regarding treatment for his UTI. Analyze the situation to determine what points you would stress in a teaching plan for this patient. 

Signs and symptoms of sympathetic nervous system activity are invariably found in MH. Levels of catecholamines are markedly increased in MH. Whether activation of the sympathetic nervous system is a primary or a secondary response in the syndrome has not been fully elucidated. Gronert reported that stress-induced sympathetic hyperactivity can initiate a malignant hyperthermic episode in susceptible swine without a triggering agent. Stress-induced MH in humans has been inferred because susceptible families have been shown to have an increased incidence of sudden death. Gronert s reasons that activation of the sympathetic... 

Educate the patient about lifestyle changes that will improve symptoms of anxiety. These include adequate sleep and exercise, stress management, meditation, and coping skills. 

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