In certain people, stress can aggravate acid reflux. Certain drugs and lifestyle modifications, on the other hand, can assist treat this condition. Furthermore, stress management may aid in its prevention in the future.
Heartburn is caused by acid reflux, often known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER). This is a burning feeling caused by acidic stomach contents leaking into the esophagus.
According to a 2018 study, both acute and chronic stress might aggravate the physical symptoms of acid reflux.
However, by eating smaller meals, elevating the head during sleep, and minimizing stress as much as possible, people may be able to cure these deteriorating symptoms.
This article investigates the relationship between stress and acid reflux, how to treat and prevent acid reflux, stress management suggestions, and when to consult a doctor.
The Stress-Acid Reflux Connection
According to a 2018 study, stress aggravates symptoms in two-thirds of persons with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Researchers from a cross-sectional research published in 2018According to the same source, anxiety and sadness levels were higher in persons with GERD than in control participants.
Furthermore, stress can cause behavioral changes that aggravate or precipitate acid reflux, such as:
- consuming an excessive amount of alcohol
- consuming tobacco
- excessive eating and consumption of foods heavy in saturated fat, salt, and sugar
- Other reasons for acid reflux
- Certain lifestyle factors or underlying illnesses might cause acid reflux. Risk factors for GERD and GER, according to the National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK)Trusted Source, include the following:
- being excessively fat
- being overweight
- being pregnant and suffering from a hiatal hernia, which develops where the food pipe narrows
- Some medications might induce or aggravate acid reflux. These are some examples:
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- some asthma drugs
- Calcium channel blockers are medications used to treat high blood pressure.
- Prednisone is a prescription steroid antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections.
Treatment of acid reflux
Acid reflux on a regular basis might suggest GERD. Doctors may advise various lifestyle modifications or drugs to manage this issue, such as the following:
- over-the-counter (OTC) drugs such as antacids prescription medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers sleeping
- using pillows to elevate the head and upper back keeping a healthy weight
- keeping a healthful, balanced diet and, if applicable, stopping smoking
- If the foregoing treatment methods do not relieve GERD symptoms, doctors may recommend surgery to alter the stomach or assist someone in losing weight.
Keeping acid reflux at bay
The National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom says that the following lifestyle adjustments may also help avoid acid reflux:
- instead of huge meals, eat smaller meals more frequently
- avoiding eating within 3-4 hours of going to bed
- Avoiding meals that cause acid reflux, such as fatty and spicy foods, by elevating the head end of the bed so that a person’s head and chest are above waist level.
- keeping a healthy weight
- avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- Stopping smoking, if appropriate, or avoiding second-hand smoke by wearing baggy clothes
- Stress-Relieving Techniques
If a person experiences increased sensitivity to acid reflux symptoms while stressed, they may benefit from stress management approaches such as the following:
- Deep breathing exercises: Concentrating on taking slow, deep, regular breaths may elicit a person’s relaxation response.
- Exercise on a regular basis: Exercise may greatly lower stress and anxiety levels.
- Priority management: A to-do list or categorizing chores in order of importance might help a person focus and feel less stressed.
- Getting enough good sleep: Sleeping for 7-9 hours a night can help people feel less anxious and overwhelmed.
- Reaching out: Talking about the sources of stress with friends and family can help reduce unpleasant emotions and lead to fresh ideas and solutions.
- Stress-reduction approaches include mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques.
- Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, may assist a person in better understanding Trusted Source and learning to manage with stress and worry.
When should you consult a doctor?
Frequent acid reflux might be a sign of another health problem, such as GERD. People may opt to consult a doctor regarding acid reflux if they have any of the following symptoms:
- OTC drugs and lifestyle modifications do not alleviate symptoms; they have additional symptoms such as vomiting, unexplained weight loss, and food being stuck in their throat; and they have heartburn most days or for three weeks or more.
- Stress can also be managed by healthcare experts. If stress begins to interfere with everyday living, or if people are concerned that stress is developing or exacerbating health problems such as acid reflux, they should consult a doctor.
Doctors can refer patients to other healthcare professionals, such as mental health doctors.
In conclusion, stress may make people more susceptible to acid reflux symptoms, but further study is needed to understand the specific relationship between stress and acid reflux.
People who experience frequent acid reflux should consult a doctor if it persists. Antacids, PPIs, and H2 blockers are among the treatment choices that can help alleviate symptoms.
Stress-reduction practices such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and yoga can help reduce stress and may lessen the intensity of any stress-related acid reflux symptoms.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.