Stress and Acid Reflux Disease
The stress—heartburn connection
Stress management tips
The stress—heartburn connection
The more stressed you are, the more likely you are to suffer from heartburn
associated with acid reflux disease. A recent study found significant
relationships between the presence of severe, sustained life stress and
increased severity of heartburn symptoms.
The reasons for this connection between stress and heartburn severity are not
fully understood. Some experts think that stress may increase stomach acid
production or keep acid in the stomach longer. And some studies suggest that
stress-related breathing patterns may affect the lower esophageal sphincter
(LES), the “valve” between the esophagus and the stomach.
Reactions to stress may also play a role. It is common for people who are
stressed to engage in behaviors that can trigger or worsen heartburn, such as:
eating fatty, fried, or other “comfort” foods; smoking cigarettes; drinking
alcohol; or forgetting to take acid reflux disease medicines.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to manage stress and the acid reflux
disease symptoms it can cause.
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Stress management tips
These steps can help you manage stress—and stress-triggered heartburn, too.
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Eat and drink smart. Avoid foods and drinks that are
common heartburn triggers
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Toss your smokes.
Quit smoking or at least reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke. Cigarettes
are known to aggravate heartburn
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Breathe better.
Concentrate on breathing deeply from your abdomen, not your chest
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Stretch and relax.
Stand up and stretch each of your muscle groups. Focus on releasing the tension
in every part of your body
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Exercise and enjoy.
Staying active can help you feel much better
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Have fun. Try to do things that make you smile and laugh. This
can relieve stress
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Next: Getting Better Sleep