Anxiety and Gastric Issues

Being in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, the anxiety levels of individuals have increased a great deal. Along with the mental pressure, anxiety brings along with it many gastro problems. These problems are now collectively termed as “brain-gut axis” disorders.

These anxiety-related gastro problems are quite common than you may think. That rumble you hear in your stomach before an interview or the abdominal discomfort before undertaking an exam are some of the gastric symptoms related with the sense of anxiousness.

Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms include:

•          Difficulty in swallowing
•          Abdominal bloating after food intake
•          Upper abdominal burning
•          Discomfort/pain
•          Constipation
•         Diarrhea
•         Region pain

These symptoms arise due to the neurochemicals released during the anxious or stressed state and not due to any diseases in the digestive system. Thus when the stress factors leading to anxiety are identified and presented to the patient and when they process or avoid them mentally, the symptoms slowly go away.

Good lifestyle modifications

To keep your mind stress-free and avoid further symptoms, here are some lifestyle changes to make:

•          Proper timing of meals
•          Good hydration and sleep
•          Sunlight exposure
•          Good hygiene
•          Regular physical activity

There are some red flag signs/symptoms like severe abdominal pain, blood loss in vomit or stools, unexplained weight loss, fever, etc., that should be ruled out before choosing to label that the patient is experiencing anxiety-induced functional gastro disorder.

Also Read: How to maintain a healthy digestive system – Infographic

Other than this, some cases might require the help of a gastrophysician and an occasional referral to a psychologist/psychiatrist. Lending a sympathetic ear to the patient’s concerns and some kind words can help a great deal in soothing the condition when compared to supportive medicine.

Kauvery Hospital

People can experience gastro problems due to stress and anxiety, and this can worsen sometimes even making the patient sick to the stomach. If you experience any of the above symptoms and they do not seem to get better with time, visit a doctor. You can use the gastroenterologist near me option or visit Kauvery Hospitals, and we assure you to provide the best care.

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