The Impact of Stress on GERD

Everyone deals with stress differently. While some people seem to not let stress bother them, for others even a dental check-up in Waxahachie can play havoc on their gastrointestinal health. It seems that Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is connected to emotions and stress in certain individuals, while in others not so much.

Although studies suggest a relationship between heartburn and stress (i.e. stress may exacerbate acid reflux symptoms), it’s unlikely that stress is the only cause of your chronic heartburn. If you have just recently begun experiencing heartburn and esophageal reflux, you may be wondering “what is acid reflux,” and “what are its causes?” Acid reflux is a gastrointestinal condition that happens when food and acids rise back up from the stomach into the esophagus. One of the most common symptoms of acid reflux and GERD is heartburn.

Acid reflux causes vary from the types of foods you eat to the lifestyle choices you make. For example, if you love spicy foods, crave chocolate, or enjoy a glass of red wine often, you may be more likely to have the symptoms of acid reflux. Similarly, overweight individuals and people who smoke often are bothered by heartburn. Additionally, people who are extra sensitive to stressful situations may be more prone to feel acid reflux symptoms more acutely than more carefree individuals. People who are under significant underlying psychological stress may suffer from more severe acid reflux symptoms because of a heightened awareness of their symptoms.

Regardless if acid reflux is caused by the food you eat or the stressful situations you face, most everyone will agree that GERD symptoms are just as real.