Houston ranks among America’s most stressful cities. Endless working hours and long daily commutes are major contributors to stress; Houstonians are paying a huge price with their health. Chronically stressed people are more likely to suffer from obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. But does stress cause acid reflux disease?
Many patients report stress as a trigger for heartburn. More than half of the patients that report to Houston Heartburn & Reflux Center attribute recurrent heartburn to a hectic lifestyle. The reality is that stress in and by itself does not cause acid reflux. The lower esophageal sphincter is a ring of muscles acting as a barrier against acid reflux. Stress does not affect the competency of the lower esophageal sphincter; hence, stress does not cause reflux. However, chronic stress can exacerbate the intensity and duration of an already existing acid reflux problem. Indeed, stress increases stomach acid production, as well as the sensitivity of the esophagus to pain. As a result, acid reflux, if already present, is felt more intensely with stress.
If you suffer from acid reflux disease and chronic stress, do not simply mask your symptoms by taking proton pump inhibitors. Rather, seek curative solutions for both issues. First, get evaluated by a reflux specialist to stage your acid reflux disease. According to your acid reflux stage, the appropriate treatment plan is offered. Second, work on developing stress coping techniques to face your daily challenges. Do not resort to smoking, heavy drinking or drug use as a means to alleviate stress. This will only exacerbate your reflux problem. Do not overeat to comfort yourself. Obesity is a significant contributor to acid reflux disease. Take care of your body by adopting a daily exercise routine. Exercise is one of the best solutions for fighting stress. Spend some time in nature, meditate, and get in touch with your inner self.
At Houston Heartburn & Reflux Center, we comprehensively target the causes of acid reflux rather than the symptoms. If stress is contributing to your acid reflux disease, we have solutions for you.