An Uncomfortable Cycle Of Stress
Stress makes acid indigestion and heartburn worseIts proven. In fact, the American Journal of Gastroenterology wondered about the correlation between stress, acid indigestion, and heartburn. So they researched a group of adults with heartburn.
What they found is that participants with higher stress levels showed more severe symptoms than those with lower stress levels. So on top of that delicious plate of triple-volcanic buffalo wings with your favorite fizzy beverage, stress can cause physical symptoms.
Stress can cause acid indigestion and heartburn which can stress you out even more.
This is how it goes: your potential new boss starts drilling in on some fussy detail. Your accountant reveals a huge, expensive tax error. You hit a big pothole with a towering wedding cake in the back seat. Or OMG! your drive-thru order is all wrong and youre already late.
Suddenly ugh. You feel acid indigestion or heartburn.
Your stomach is making sure you know how stressed out you are.
Because stress can cause stomach acid to build up. That can create all the discomfort and acid indigestion associated with heartburn.
But what if youve had all those spicy wings as well? The fat, spice, and salt all contribute to producing more stomach acid and relaxing your lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that seals the connection between your stomach and throat.
So now theres more acid and its leaking up into your esophagus. Thats acid indigestion and heartburn.
Can Stress Cause Stomach Pain Find Out Here
36k Views
Can stress cause stomach pain? Do you ever feel like your stomach is in knots? Do you get sharp pains in your gut or have trouble digesting food? If so, you may be suffering from stress-related stomach pain. This article will explore the link between stress and stomach pain. We will discuss the symptoms of stress-related stomach pain and provide tips on managing it.
Can Stress Cause Stomach Pain The Symptoms Of Stress
Stomach pain is a common symptom of stress and anxiety, and the pain may feel sharp and cramp-like or a more general aching feeling.
Can stress cause stomach pain? Stress can also cause other digestive symptoms like nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Some people find that their appetite decreases when stressed, while others may experience cravings for certain foods.
The symptoms of stress-related stomach pain can vary depending on the individual but often include:
- Constipation.
In some cases, the pain may be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities. These symptoms can contribute to further stress and anxiety, creating a vicious cycle.
Don’t Miss: What’s The Difference Between Stress And Anxiety
What Does Covid Stomach Pain Feel Like
Most people report a burning sensation in their stomach, and others have noted that it feels like they have the flu or food poisoning. The pain can be quite severe and may last a few hours to days.
The cause of Covid stomach pain is still unknown, but doctors believe it may be due to the virus itself or to the bodyâs immune response. Treatment options are limited, but most people find relief by taking over-the-counter painkillers and drinking plenty of fluids. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, you should see your doctor.
Manage Stress In Your Life
A nervous stomach could mean that youre simply in a nervous state. Are you undergoing a lot of stress lately? Do you have a big event, job interview, or nerve-wracking experience coming up? You could just be nervous about it, and it will pass.
If youre dealing with chronic stressful experiences and a lot of nervous stomach symptoms every day, on the other hand, finding time and ways to manage that stress is essential. Your nervous stomach could then subside.
Also Check: Does Stress Cause Gout Flare Up
Eat Properly To Help Your Digestion
It’s very easy to spend our working lives eating on the move or at our desks, gulping down food between meetings and then crashing out in front of the TV with a takeaway in the evenings.
But eating this way can play havoc with our digestive system.
Follow some basic rules to prevent problems:
- Do not rush your food. Take the time to eat slowly. Try putting your fork down between bites and chew each mouthful well.
- Do not overeat. Reduce the size of your portions at mealtimes, or try eating 4 to 5 small meals instead of 3 large ones.
- Eat regularly and try not to skip meals.
- Avoid eating a big meal just before you go to bed. Eat your last meal at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down.
- Make sure you have plenty of water to drink.
When Should You See A Physician
Usually, both indigestion and stress can be treated with a change in medications or diet. There are two reasons you should see a physician for indigestion: If you experience alarm features or when the symptoms persist over time or. Alarm features include fever, vomiting, weight loss, bleeding in vomit or a stool, or if youve had a previous history of chronic stomach problems.
When it comes to stress, see a physician if the problem is chronic . If not treated, stress can impact your overall well being.
Don’t Miss: Will Stress Cause Your Blood Sugar To Rise
What Causes Stomach Ulcers Dont Assume Spicy Foods Are To Blame
For decades, spicy foods were blamed for painful stomach ulcers. People doubled over in pain were advised to cut back on fiery foods.
In the 1980s, however, that theory was debunked, as was the thought that stress causes ulcers. Matthew Bechtold, MD, a gastroenterologist at MU Health Care, said the primary causes of ulcers are a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs .
H. pylori spreads through contaminated food and water or unsanitary conditions. It can cause ulcers by growing in the lining of the stomach, producing inflammation and causing the stomach and intestinal lining to be more easily damaged by stomach acid.
NSAIDs that can lead to ulcers include popular over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. They can irritate the stomachs lining and may interfere with chemicals that help regulate the protective lining.
Ulcers caused by NSAIDs can be prevented by reducing or eliminating use of the drugs. Your doctor may also prescribe a daily medicine, such as Prilosec, Pepcid or Cytotec.
Even though the beliefs about what caused ulcers were disabused more than 30 years ago, Bechtold said to this day many patients dont know that spicy foods are not harmful.
They tend to blame the spicy foods for their issues, he said.
A study on capsaicin the ingredient responsible for spiciness in peppers showed it might even be good for the stomach.
Should I See A Gastroenterologist About My Upset Stomach
If youve been experiencing unpleasant digestive symptoms for 2-4 weeks, it might be time to see a doctor. Perhaps youve tried some of the recommendations listed above but arent getting relief, or maybe you have an underlying feeling that something just isnt right. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends that patients should see a doctor if their digestive upset lasts for more than two weeks. You should also see a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following in addition to stomach discomfort:
- diarrhea that lasts for more than two days
- frequent vomiting or vomit that looks like it contains blood or coffee grounds
- pain in the chest, neck, jaw, or arm
- unexplained weight loss
Recommended Reading: What Essential Oil Is Good For Stress And Anxiety
Check With Your Pediatrician
When a child develops a pattern of physical symptoms before school, or other potentially stressful moments, experts recommend that you visit your doctor to rule out medical concerns. But if the child gets a clean bill of health, the next step is to help the child make the connection between their worries and their physical symptoms.
We help them understand in a very child-friendly way that sometimes our body can actually give us clues into what were feeling, explains Ms. Greenspan.
Parents can start by validating their childs experience and reframing it in a more helpful way. Instead of telling kids theres nothing wrong with them, the goal is to tell them that what theyre feeling is worry.
We give it a name, adds Dr. Domingues. We help them connect it to an emotion and label it. And after some practice kids are able to identify it, she adds. Yes, my stomach hurts and, oh yeah, I remember thats because Im feeling worried. And after learning some skills to help them calm down, I think they feel a sense of control. And that helps.
Referral To A Pediatric Psychologist
Because of time constraints, it is not always possible for pediatricians to implement effective strategies to help children manage their symptoms and return to their normal level of functioning. The longer children avoid school, however, the more difficult it becomes to return to school and the more stress is generated. Therefore, as soon as it becomes evident that a childs return to school is not progressing and daily functioning is not improving, the pediatrician should refer the child to a pediatric psychologist or other behavioral health provider. Although some families may not regard generic counseling as necessary,9 most families recognize that worry and stress can exacerbate their childrens symptoms. Families are most likely to accept referral to a behavioral health provider that the pediatrician knows and who offers targeted services, such as pain and stress management, which are consistent with the familys view of their childs needs. Finally, it is important for the pediatrician to schedule a follow-up visit to monitor the childs progress and evaluate any new symptoms.
Don’t Miss: Why Do I Get Stressed So Easily
Find Space For Yourself To Relax
Ultimately, find time and space for yourself to clear your head and take control of your nervousness, even if it must be total alone time. Dont be afraid to excuse yourself, even from an important event.
If talking to a friend, family member, or loved one helps, do so during this time. Talking with someone you trust can help you overcome anxiety.
Initial Return To School
Ideally, the child should return to school immediately following a medical evaluation that rules out disease or disorder requiring bedrest. In some cases, however, children and their parents do not have adequate skills to manage the anxiety that would ensue during a day-long separation. These children may do better with a graduated return to school in which they attend for a limited period initially , increasing to full-time attendance over a period of 2 to 3 weeks. The first day back at school should be limited to a period of time, however short, that guarantees child success and boosts child and family confidence in the childs ability to attend school.
Ask the family to display a calendar at home and record the number of hours the child attends school each day. Help the family make a list of special privileges or treats that the child can earn for attending school as scheduled. These rewards should be delivered on the day they are earned, accompanied by warm praise. Plan for special activities when the child reaches important milestones .
Also Check: Can Stress Bring On Cold Sores
What Are The Side Effects Of High Stomach Acid
Having high levels of stomach acid can increase your risk of developing other stomach-related health conditions. These include:
- Peptic ulcers:Peptic ulcers are sores that can develop when gastric acid begins to eat away at the lining of your stomach.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease :GERD is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into your esophagus.
- Gastrointestinal bleeding: This involves bleeding anywhere in your digestive tract.
Types Of Stomach Problems From Anxiety
What’s interesting about anxiety stomach problems is that they may occur at different times for different people. Some people get stomach problems only during severe anxiety attacks. Others get these problems all throughout the day but know that they suffer from intense anxiety.
The following represent the most common types of “stomach problems” from anxiety. Remember, people often use the word stomach to also include bowels, colloquially.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Your Stress
Other Tips For Managing Anxiety In The Stomach
If youre dealing with anxiety in your stomach, there are a few things you can do to help.
Can Anxiety Cause A Pulse In The Stomach
Anxiety can increase a persons pulse or heart rate, or cause a person to have trouble breathing. If youre feeling these symptoms of anxiety, its time to get some help.
Anxiety is a strong feeling of worry and nervousness. It can happen at any time, and its normal for people to feel anxious at certain points in their life.
Some people only experience anxiety during high-stress times, like before a test or an important meeting. Other people may feel anxious all the time, which can interfere with day-to-day activities like work and school. Anxiety can cause different sensations in the body.
You might feel your pulse in your stomach or notice that youre breathing more quickly than usual.
Don’t Miss: Can Stress And Anxiety Cause Back Pain
What Are Peptic Ulcers
There is no clear evidence to suggest that the stress of modern life or a steady diet of fast food causes ulcers in the stomach and small intestine, but they are nonetheless common in our society: About one out of every 10 Americans will suffer from the burning, gnawing abdominal pain of a peptic ulcer at some point in life.
Peptic ulcers are holes or breaks in the protective lining of the duodenum or the stomach areas that come into contact with stomach acids and enzymes. Duodenal ulcers are more common than stomach ulcers. Comparatively rare are esophageal ulcers, which form in the esophagus or swallowing tube and are often a result of exposure to medications, like certain antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, or alcohol abuse.
Until the mid-1980s, the conventional wisdom was that ulcers form as a result of stress, a genetic predisposition to excessive stomach acid secretion, and poor lifestyle habits . It was believed that such influences contribute to a buildup of stomach acids that erode the protective lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.
Other factors also seem to contribute to ulcer formation, especially in someone with H. pylori:
- Overuse of over-the-counter painkillers
- Psychological stress
Other studies show that stomach ulcers are more likely to develop in older people. This may be because:
Also, for no known reason, people with type A blood are more likely to develop cancerous stomach ulcers.
Eye Problems Or Decreasing Vision
Do you find that the world looks blurry? While depression may cause the world to look grey and bleak, one 2010 research study in Germany suggests that this mental health concern may actually affect ones eyesight.
In that study of 80 people, depressed individuals had difficulty seeing differences in black and white. Known by researchers as contrast perception, this might explain why depression can make the world look hazy.
Read Also: What Are Signs Of Post Traumatic Stress
Don’t Miss: How To Combat Stress Hormones
Understanding The Link Between Stress And Stomach Aches In Children
Abdominal pain and stress are related in many ways. Having abdominal pain can cause stress, especially when it leads to missed school or other activities. But more often, stress causes abdominal pain, or makes it worse. Do you ever have butterflies in your stomach when you are nervous? Did you ever feel sick to your stomach when you got some bad news? Children feel the same things, but often cant tell where those feelings come from. It took a long a time to understand why my stomach hurt every morning when I turned the corner to my middle school.
Scientists can explain why we have these feelings: the stomach and intestine have their own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system. These nerves respond to the same stress hormones and neurotransmitters that our brains do. We also know that stress and fatigue decrease pain thresholds. This means that a small change, like the passage of a gas bubble, can feel much worse when a person is stressed, tired, and run down. When a person is well-rested and feeling good, he or she might not even notice the gas bubble.
Stress-related eating can worsen pain, too. Which are the comfort foods your child prefers? Are they high in lactose or fructose, such as milk, apple juice, macaroni and cheese, or ice cream? Many people have a poor ability to digest lactose or fructose. Although these conditions are not dangerous, they can be very uncomfortable, causing pain, cramping, bloating, and even diarrhea.
