A career change, an argument with your child or even a family vacation may all cause you to feel stressed out. For some, it may also cause stress-related stomach pain. Understanding the reasons behind why this occurs, and how, is a big step in learning cope with it.
Why It Happens
When stress occurs, several things occur in the body that can affect the digestive tract and cause pain. In an effort to preserve functioning in other vital organs, the fight-or-flight response triggers blood to pool at the core of the body (because you can live without extremities). This is also called vasoconstriction of the gut. According to the Mayo Clinic, "when your brain receives a threat, your body releases a burst of hormones to fuel the fight-or-flight response." Stress, while it has a less immediate impact on the body, still triggers the same chemical response, but over a longer period of time. All of this additional activity in your body disrupts normal digestion and can leave you feeling sick.
Symptoms
Stress can wreak havoc on your body. You may experience diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, constipation, nausea, vomiting and heart burn, all as a result of anxiety or stress. Eating certain foods and drinking alcohol may also exacerbate the issue.
Psychological Effects
Stress related stomach pain can leave you feeling depressed, anxious and isolated. Talk to your family and friends and let them know what you are going through. You may also consider talking to a counselor or psychologist who can help you learn to cope with stress in a more effective and healthy way.
Prevention/Solution
Diet has a lot to do with how your body responds to stress, especially if you are prone to stomach aches. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of whole grains, protein and vegetables. Stay away from spicy and acidic foods that may irritate your digestive tract. Pay attention to your symptoms and make a note of which foods bother you in particular. You may be able to eat jalapenos, while someone else who also suffers from stress-related stomach pain may not. It all depends on your individual body chemistry. If you know you are going to experience stress, such as a change in your position at work, attending an out of town wedding, or an expected financial strain, change your eating habits accordingly. Avoid foods that may have a propensity to give you trouble, and stick to things you know are easier on your system.
There are also a myriad of options for medicinal aid in the form of prescription drugs. An anti-cholinergic can be prescribed that will slow down the activity of your intestinal tract and can help with diarrhea. An anti-anxiety medication may also help alleviate your symptoms.
Warning
This article is not intended to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Stomach pain, even if it is fleeting, may indicate a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Tags: your body, activity your, change your, cope with, digestive tract