More Than Just a "Bad Day": The 12 Emotional and Physical Signs You're Experiencing Adrenal Fatigue

11. Digestive Upset—From Sensitive Stomachs to Unpredictable Digestion

Stress and digestion have a closer relationship than most people realize. For many navigating adrenal fatigue or chronic stress, new digestive grumbles—like constipation, diarrhea, unpredictable digestion, or increased food sensitivities—come as an unwelcome surprise. Dr. Lam highlights shifts in the gut as part of the “stress connection,” while mainstream medicine recognizes the impact of cortisol on the digestive tract. Frequent bloating, discomfort after eating, or sudden changes in regularity may all be your gut’s way of waving a flag. The good news: small shifts in stress reduction, meal timing, and food choices can often bring comfort over time. Treating your digestive system with kindness, and not judgment, can help you restore balance gently. If issues become persistent, seeking support is a proactive step, not a cause for worry.

12. Dizziness Upon Standing or Fluctuating Blood Pressure

Ever stand up quickly, only to feel lightheaded or dizzy? This sensation, sometimes linked to blood pressure changes, is another pattern that can accompany sustained stress or symptoms attributed to adrenal fatigue. Dr. Lam refers to this as “orthostatic hypotension,” often described by those experiencing adrenal exhaustion as that shaky, spinning feeling after rising from a chair. Blood pressure is regulated in part by stress hormones, so when the body's system is overworked, these ups and downs may become more noticeable. While dizziness can stem from many causes, if it’s part of a broader picture of fatigue and stress, it might be worth noting in your health journey. Easing into standing and staying hydrated are small comforts that can help; if symptoms become frequent, a conversation with a healthcare professional is a wise and caring next step.