Stress and GERD: Protect Your Digestive Health
Stress and Acid Reflux- The Burning Truth 🔥
Ever felt that fiery burn in your chest and wondered why it hits hardest on stressful days?
It’s no coincidence—stress could be fueling the flames of GERD.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Stress: A Dangerous Duo
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition where chronic exposure from the acidic stomach secretions come up to the unprotected epithelial lining of the esophagus.
This can cause damage to to lining and potentially lead to cancer- like Barrett’s esophagus.
Causes of GERD
Poor lifestyle habits (e.g., overeating, lying down right after eating)
Certain medications- antibiotics, sedatives, nitrates, calcium channel blocker agents, anticholinergics and others
Obesity- having a body mass index >30
Smoking, and high alcohol intake
Anxiety and depression
Stress- increases acid production, weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, and heightens sensitivity to acid
Risk Factors
Age (over 50)
Men report more frequently than women
Chronic stress or anxiety
Hiatal hernia
Pregnancy
Poor diet, high in unhealthy fats and spicy foods
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent heartburn (especially after eating or at night)
Regurgitation of sour or bitter-tasting acid
Chest pain or discomfort
Difficulty swallowing
Sore throat, chronic cough, or laryngitis
Complications
Esophagitis, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, peptic ulcer, peptic stricture, dysphagia, gastric cardia cancer, and Barrett esophagus.
GERD may also result in extra-gastrointestinal complications, including dental erosions, laryngitis, cough, asthma, sinusitis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Higher rates in people who experience chronic stress.
Stress and GERD: The Vicious Cycle
Stress can amplify GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production.
It weakens the esophageal muscles, allowing acid to escape into the esophagus.
Experiencing anxiety over GERD symptoms can lead to more stress, perpetuating the cycle.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis include but are not limited to:
Endoscopy
pH monitoring
X-ray with barium swallow
Conventional Treatments:
Antacids and proton pump inhibitors
Lifestyle changes (diet and sleep habits)
Surgery in severe cases
Learn holistic approaches and natural treatments.
Why reducing stress is essential for GERD prevention? ⬇️