Physical Effects of Conflict

Conflict affects the way the mind functions when it is under stress and the body undergoes some significant changes as well.

Rapid Heartbeat

• The heart starts to race when the body senses conflict. This is due to an increase in adrenaline, which puts the body in "'fight or flight" mode--either response can excite the body and increase the heart rate.

Tunnel Vision

• Tunnel vision makes it difficult to think clearly in the midst of a disagreement, which is why individuals need to remove themselves from conflict temporarily until the problem can be solved logically.

Nausea

• When adrenaline is pumping through the body, symptoms like headache or nausea are not uncommon. This is a response to being nervous or angry and the body may be producing more gastric juices during an argument as well.

Body Tension

• Muscles may also tighten during conflict, causing twinges of pain in the extremities. This is due to cortisol, the stress hormone, which has secreted in the body in excess amounts. The hormone is also responsible for raising blood pressure.

Perspiration

• Body temperature rises during arguments, which leads to sweaty palms or armpits or beads of sweat on the forehead. Getting some fresh air will usually help to cool the body down and reduce stress.