We live in stressful times. Work pressures, financial concerns, family responsibilities, and the constant demands of modern life leave many people feeling perpetually exhausted, anxious, or simply not themselves. When you mention these feelings to friends or colleagues, the response is often the same: "It's just stress."
But what if it is not just stress? What if these symptoms are your body's way of signalling an underlying health issue that needs attention? Blood tests can reveal whether your symptoms have a physical cause that goes beyond everyday stress — and that knowledge can be life-changing.
The Problem with Dismissing Symptoms as "Just Stress"
Stress is real and can certainly cause physical symptoms. However, automatically attributing symptoms to stress is problematic for several reasons:
The truth is that many common medical conditions present with symptoms remarkably similar to chronic stress.
Thyroid Disorders: The Great Mimicker
Thyroid dysfunction is one of the most common causes of symptoms mistaken for stress, particularly in women.
### Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Symptoms that overlap with stress:
### Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
Symptoms that overlap with anxiety:
Thyroid disorders are extremely common and highly treatable. For detailed information, read our guide to private blood tests for thyroid problems.
Blood tests: TSH, Free T4, Free T3, thyroid antibodies.
Anaemia and Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide and a frequent cause of persistent fatigue.
Symptoms often attributed to stress:
Women of reproductive age are particularly susceptible due to menstrual blood loss. For more on fatigue investigation, read our article on why you should not ignore tiredness.
Blood tests: Full blood count, serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency develops slowly and can cause debilitating symptoms that are easily mistaken for stress or depression.
Symptoms often attributed to stress:
Who is at risk:
Blood tests: Vitamin B12, methylmalonic acid (for borderline cases).
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common in the United Kingdom and can significantly affect energy and mood.
Symptoms often attributed to stress:
Blood tests: 25-hydroxyvitamin D.
Blood Sugar Problems
Both diabetes and prediabetes can cause symptoms that mimic chronic stress.
Symptoms often attributed to stress:
For detailed information, read our guide to understanding the A1C blood test.
Blood tests: Fasting glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin.
Inflammation
Chronic low-grade inflammation can cause persistent fatigue and malaise.
Symptoms often attributed to stress:
Inflammation can result from various causes including autoimmune conditions, chronic infections, or lifestyle factors. Learn more in our overview of the C-reactive protein test.
Blood tests: CRP, ESR.
Hormone Imbalances
Beyond thyroid hormones, other hormonal imbalances can cause stress-like symptoms.
### Cortisol Dysregulation
Ironically, chronic stress can dysregulate cortisol, which then perpetuates symptoms. Learn more in our article on the link between stress, cortisol, and your blood test results.
### Sex Hormone Imbalances
Low testosterone (in men), oestrogen fluctuations, and other hormonal changes can cause:
For more information, read our article on hormone imbalance symptoms you should not ignore.
When Should You Get Tested?
Consider blood tests if:
A Comprehensive Approach
Rather than testing for individual conditions, a comprehensive panel can efficiently screen for multiple causes at once:
For details on comprehensive testing, read our guide to what's included in a comprehensive health check.
The Power of Knowing
Blood test results can be transformative:
Either way, you gain valuable information about your health.
Health Testing in London
At Private Blood Tests London, we offer comprehensive health panels at our CQC-registered clinic in South Kensington. Our tests can reveal whether your symptoms have an underlying physical cause or whether stress management should be your primary focus.
Explore our [thyroid function tests](/thyroid-test), [full blood count](/full-blood-count-test), and [comprehensive health screening packages](/health-screening).
Stop wondering whether it is "just stress." Get answers. Book your blood test today.