Health

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Why It Leads To Anxiety?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when acid from the stomach leaks into the food pipe or oesophagus. The other term for this disease is persistent acid reflux. 

As Malaysians, we consume a lot of spicy and acidic dishes in our daily diet. Despite these foods being delicious on our tastebuds, they can harm our stomachs, especially if we don’t control our intake. 

Picture: Houston Heartburn and Reflux Centre

But what is the correlation between GERD and anxiety? 

A 2018 study involving 19,000 people with anxiety found that they are prone to experience GERD symptoms. 

What are the reasons?

According to the authors of the research above, here are some of the reasons:

  • Anxiety might reduce pressure in the lower oesophageal sphincter
    • It is the band of muscle that keeps the stomach closed and prevents leakage of acid into the oesophagus.
  • Stress responses can cause long-lasting muscle tension
    • Affected muscles around the stomach can increase pressure in the organ.
    • Thus, it pushes the acid upwards.
  • High anxiety levels may increase the production of stomach acid

Why GERD triggers anxiety?

In a study, researchers discovered that people with GERD who experienced chest pain had a higher level of depression and anxiety than those who didn’t. 

Parallelly, anxiety could also trigger GERD. Experiencing stress or anxiety leads to acid reflux, and other factors are:

  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Smoking
  • Hiatal hernia

Know the GERD symptoms

The most common GERD symptom is heartburn. Additionally, other symptoms could lead to GERD, for instance:

  • Nausea or an upset stomach
  • Chest or abdominal pain
  • Painful swallowing
  • Vomiting
  • Bad breath

Symptoms of anxiety

It may differ from one person and the another, but the general symptoms are:

  • Increasing heart rate
  • Nervousness or restlessness
  • Muscles twitching
  • Physically and mentally tense
  • Hyperventilation
  • Constant paranoia
  • Easily distracted or difficult to focus
  • Digestive issues like gas, diarrhoea, or constipation
  • Inability to sleep
  • Panic attacks

How to prevent and treat GERD?

GERD can be stressful. My father has this sickness. Truthfully, it affects not only him but everyone around him. It’s heartbreaking to see someone go through intense chest pain that heightens their anxiety and stress level.

There are ways to prevent and treat acid reflux. Some of the methods are:

  • Analyse and avoid eating foods that trigger the symptoms
    • In my father’s case, he can’t eat too many spices, especially black pepper, beef, and oily foods.
  • Don’t eat large or fatty meals as it’s difficult to digest
  • Eat the last meal not more than 3 hours before bed
  • Take antacids like calcium carbonate (Tums) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
Pictures: Pharmacy Times, Ubuy Malaysia
  • Take proton pump inhibitors such as esomeprazole (Nexium)
Picture: Ubuy Malaysia
  • Use H2 blockers like famotidine (Pepcid)
Picture: Ubuy Malaysia
    • You can also try Gaviscon or Vencid from your nearest pharmacy.
Pictures: Greysonctx, Boots

GERD is a disease that can contribute to anxiety and stress. This condition should be treated as quickly as possible to prevent it from developing. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. 

If it gets severe, consult a doctor to ensure you’re getting the right treatment. 

Sources: Medical News Today, National Library of Medicine

Adib Mohd

Recent Posts

Stranger Things Returns This November And the Upside Down Is Bringing New Secrets With It

Hey creepaholics, the nightmare society is calling for backup!  November is coming to turn your… Read More

5 hours ago

HABIB x Zoo Negara Unveil Limited-Edition Gold Wafers Celebrating Malaysia’s Wildlife Heritage

Calling for gold keepers! On October 24, HABIB will launch its exclusive Limited Edition HABIB… Read More

7 hours ago

A Season of Sparkle: Carlo Rino Wraps Up 2025 With Joy, Nostalgia & Everyday Luxury

A Season of Sparkle: Carlo Rino Wraps Up 2025 With Joy, Nostalgia & Everyday Luxury… Read More

11 hours ago

Beneath the Armor: Men’s Hidden Battle With Mental Health

Beneath the Armor: Men's Hidden Battle With Mental Health “Therapy? No, I don’t need therapy,… Read More

1 day ago

Carolina Herrera Dares the Good Girl to Move in Audacity!

A touch of elegance, a scent of confidence. Carolina Herrera and Swarovski will bring light… Read More

1 day ago

Lights, Culture, and Celebration: Deepavali Shines Bright at Sunway Lagoon and Lost World of Tambun

Lights, Culture, and Celebration: Deepavali Shines Bright at Sunway Lagoon and Lost World of Tambun… Read More

1 day ago

This website uses cookies.