It’s not just a saying. Heartbreak truly hurts, and not just emotionally. When love goes south, it can unleash a cascade of physical symptoms. It’s like a body-wide meltdown, triggered by stress hormones and the emotional rollercoaster of grief.
1. You have a broken heart — literally.
Okay, maybe not literally broken, but “broken heart syndrome” is a real thing. It mimics a heart attack with chest pain and shortness of breath, triggered by intense emotional stress. It’s temporary, but scary nonetheless, so don’t hesitate to seek medical help if you experience these symptoms.
2. Your appetite vanishes, or you overeat.
Comfort food might seem like a good idea initially, but heartbreak can throw your appetite out of whack. Some people lose their appetite entirely, while others binge eat to numb the pain. It’s a vicious cycle, but try to focus on nourishing your body with healthy foods to aid in your recovery.
3. You can’t sleep, or you sleep too much.
Whether it’s insomnia or sleeping the day away, heartbreak messes with your sleep cycle. Racing thoughts, anxiety, and sadness can make it impossible to sleep, while others find solace in sleep as an escape from reality. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and avoiding stimulants can help.
4. You feel fatigued and drained.
Emotional exhaustion takes a toll on your energy levels. It’s like your body is working overtime to deal with the stress and grief. You might feel tired all the time, even after a good night’s sleep. This is normal, but make sure to rest and prioritise looking after yourself.
5. Your head pounds with tension headaches.
Source: Unsplash Stress and heartbreak are a recipe for headaches. The tension and anxiety build up in your muscles, leading to throbbing pain in your head and neck. Relaxation techniques, gentle massage, and over-the-counter pain relievers can offer some relief.
6. Your stomach churns with nausea and pain.
The gut-brain connection is real, and heartbreak can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Nausea, stomach pain, and digestive problems are common. Try to stick to a bland diet, avoid trigger foods, and consider probiotics to support gut health.
7. Your immune system weakens, making you more susceptible to illness.
Stress weakens your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to colds, flu, and other infections. This is the last thing you need when you’re already feeling down. Boost your immune system with vitamin C, zinc, and plenty of rest.
8. You experience body aches and pains.
Emotional pain can manifest physically as aches and pains throughout your body. It’s like your body is carrying the weight of your heartbreak. Gentle exercise, stretching, and warm baths can help ease the discomfort.
9. Your skin breaks out in stress-induced acne.
Source: Unsplash Those pesky pimples aren’t just for teenagers. The stress hormones surging through your body can trigger breakouts, even if you haven’t had acne in years. Maintaining a good skincare routine and managing stress can help keep your skin clear.
10. Your hair starts to fall out.
Source: Unsplash Stress can also contribute to hair loss. It’s normal to shed some hair every day, but heartbreak can accelerate the process. A balanced diet, gentle hair care, and stress management techniques can help keep hair loss to a minimum.
11. You experience dizziness and lightheadedness.
Source: Unsplash Feeling dizzy or light-headed can be a side effect of stress, dehydration, or changes in blood pressure. Make sure you’re drinking enough water and eating regular meals to maintain your blood sugar levels. If dizziness continues beyond a few short episodes, however, you should consult a doctor.
12. You have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Source: Unsplash Heartbreak can cloud your mind with worry and sadness, making it hard to focus on work, studies, or everyday tasks. You might find it difficult to make decisions or remember important details. Be patient with yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
13. You withdraw from social activities and isolate yourself.
Source: Unsplash When you’re heartbroken, socialising might feel like the last thing you want to do. You might prefer to be alone with your thoughts and feelings. While it’s important to allow yourself time to grieve, don’t isolate yourself completely. Reach out to supportive friends and family who can offer comfort and understanding.
14. You experience panic attacks and anxiety.
Source: Unsplash For some, heartbreak can trigger panic attacks and heightened anxiety. These episodes can be overwhelming, with symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and a sense of impending doom. Seek professional help if you’re struggling with panic attacks or anxiety.
