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Stress can cause stomach acid to rise, is it true?

Stress is a common condition experienced in daily life, whether due to work pressure, personal issues, or other situations. However, did you know that stress can affect physical health, including triggering acid reflux?

Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux) occurs when stomach acid rises into the esophagus, causing discomfort such as heartburn, nausea, and a burning sensation in the throat. Stress is often linked to worsening acid reflux symptoms, but how are these two connected?

Stress does not directly cause an increase in stomach acid production, but it does affect how the body reacts to existing stomach issues. Here are some ways stress can trigger acid reflux:

  • Changes in Eating Habits: When stressed, many people tend to change their eating patterns. Some consume more fatty, spicy, or fried foods, all of which can trigger acid reflux. Conversely, some people lose their appetite and skip meals, which can also disrupt the stomach's acid balance.

  • Changes in Digestive Function: Under stress, the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the 'fight or flight' response, becomes active. This can slow down digestion, causing food to remain in the stomach longer, increasing the risk of acid reflux.

  • Muscle Tension: Stress can cause muscles throughout the body, including those around the esophagus, to tense up. This can affect the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle that normally keeps stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. When this muscle weakens or becomes overly relaxed due to stress, acid reflux is more likely to occur.

  • Decreased Prostaglandin Production: Stress can also reduce the production of prostaglandins, compounds that protect the stomach lining from irritation by acid. When this protective layer decreases, the stomach becomes more vulnerable to damage and irritation.

The main symptoms of acid reflux triggered by stress include:

  • A burning sensation in the chest or throat (heartburn)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
  • Bloating and feeling full
  • Chronic cough or hoarseness

These symptoms can worsen as stress increases or when the body feels exhausted from emotional pressure.

To prevent or reduce acid reflux symptoms triggered by stress, there are several steps you can take:

  • Manage Stress: Find effective ways to manage stress, such as light exercise, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. These relaxation techniques can help reduce muscle tension and improve digestion.

  • Adjust Eating Habits: Eat smaller portions more frequently, and avoid foods that can trigger acid reflux, such as spicy, fatty, acidic, or fried foods. Increase your intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains rich in fiber to aid digestion.

  • Mind Your Posture: After eating, avoid lying down or going to bed for at least 2-3 hours. Sitting or standing upright can help prevent stomach acid from rising.

  • Elevate Your Head When Sleeping: If acid reflux symptoms frequently occur at night, try sleeping with your head elevated to keep it above the stomach, using gravity to help prevent acid from rising.

  • Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both habits can weaken the esophageal sphincter and worsen acid reflux symptoms.

  • Consult a Doctor: If acid reflux symptoms persist despite trying various remedies, consult a doctor. Medical treatments, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors, may be necessary to control stomach acid production

Stress can have a significant impact on digestive health, including increasing the risk of acid reflux. However, by managing stress and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, acid reflux symptoms can be reduced. Always pay attention to the signs your body gives and make the necessary changes to maintain physical and mental balance. With simple steps, you can control stress and prevent it from affecting your digestive health. If it really bothers you, you can consult with a psychologist and specialist in internal medicine at Hermina Hospital, Purwokerto.

Access to registration can be done in the following 4 ways:
1. Download the mobile application on Playstore (Type Hello Hermina)
2. Call Call Center 1500488
3. Via website -> www.herminahospitals.com
4. Via the Mobile JKN application

Reference :

  1. Mayo Clinic**. (2020). *Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)*. Retrieved from [mayoclinic.org](https://www.mayoclinic.org)
  2. American Psychological Association**. (2019). *How Stress Affects Your Health*. Retrieved from [apa.org](https://www.apa.org)
  3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)**. (2021). *Acid Reflux (GER & GERD) in Adults*. Retrieved from [niddk.nih.gov](https://www.niddk.nih.gov)
  4. Harvard Health Publishing**. (2018). *Stressed Out? It Can Affect Your Digestive System*. Retrieved from [health.harvard.edu](https://www.health.harvard.edu)
  5. WebMD**. (2020). *Stress and Acid Reflux*. Retrieved from [webmd.com](https://www.webmd.com)

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