These symptoms are due to a connection between the brain and the gut.
This article will discuss the stomach symptoms that stress produces and the available treatment options.
It will also cover when to see a healthcare provider.
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If symptoms last longer, it could mean that something other than stress is causing them.
Stomach Pain: Is It Stress or Anxiety?
Stress and anxietyare terms that are often used interchangeably.
However, stress is an emotional and physical response that is triggered by a trigger.
It could be work or relationships.
Stress generally ends once the situation or trigger is removed.
Anxiety is having excessive or constant worry even when the stressor is removed.
Both conditions produce physical symptoms, which may include stomach pain.
Researchers have proven these concepts wrong and instead point to thebrain-gut axisas a possible basis for the pain.
The brain-gut axis is a nerve connection between the gut and the brain.
When someone experiences stress, chemical messengers between nerve cells (neurotransmitters) are released.
This release puts the body into a fight-or-flight response.
In this state, the brain and body are on alert and ready for immediate action.
This stress response alters digestion and causes various gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
It’s a bidirectional relationship in that stomach pain causes stress, and stress can cause stomach pain.
Stress can change the balance of different types of gut microbes, which can create stomach pain.
Is Stomach Pain From Anxiety Different?
Anxietytends to produce the same stomach symptoms as stress.
However, anxiety is longer lasting than stress and, therefore, the symptoms tend to last longer.
Take note if certain foods or drinks are causing or worsening the pain.Alcoholand caffeine are two common triggers.
It’s also important to identify what is causing the stress.
Removing these causes and triggers can reduce stress and stomach pain.
However, if you have chronic stomach pain, it’s time to contact a healthcare provider.
They may refer you to a gastroenterologist (specialist in conditions of the digestive system) for specialized care.
No one should have regular stomach pain.
Do not hesitate to contact a healthcare provider for a treatment plan that is designed for your diagnosis.
Summary
The stomach and the brain have a strong connection called the gut-brain axis.
When someone experiences stress, it not only affects them emotionally but also physically.
It can cause several symptoms that include stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
If stress and stomach pain are happening regularly, it is time to contact a healthcare provider for treatment.
MedlinePlus.Stress and your health.
University of Chicago Medicine.Stress-related stomach pain: when to see a doctor.
Harvard Health.The gut-brain connection.
American Psychology Association.What’s the difference between stress and anxiety?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About emotional well-being.
