Anxiety and indigestion often occur together, with anxiety causing stomach upset and indigestion leading to anxiety. Exercise, smaller meals, and certain foods can help, but patients should speak to a doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
Anxiety and indigestion are two common conditions that often occur together. The disorders are related in two ways. Anxiety often causes stomach upset which can lead to indigestion for many patients. The reverse is also true. Severe and chronic indigestion due to gastrointestinal problems can also cause anxiety. Both conditions are generally treatable once the underlying causes are identified and therapies are started.
One of the main reasons anxiety often occurs alongside indigestion is because when the body becomes anxious, the stomach starts producing more acid. This can cause heartburn and can also slow digestion leading to further stomach problems such as gas or bloating. Once these distressing symptoms are present, anxiety can worsen due to the discomfort. This often creates a cycle that requires medication to ease at first. Anxiety medications can include antidepressants and are often continued long-term, depending on the reason for the anxiety.
Another connection between anxiety and indigestion is that chronic heartburn and stomach pain can lead to anxiety. This is because it is stressful to feel uncomfortable or ill, especially if the reasons are not known. The heart also pumps blood faster when stomach acid is higher, leading to feelings that resemble anxiety. In this situation, the underlying cause of the stomach pain should be determined and treated.
In addition to medications, there are many things patients can do to minimize anxiety and stomach pain. Exercise is beneficial for both conditions because it helps speed up digestion and releases “feel-good” hormones into the bloodstream. Cardio exercise also reduces the chances of obesity, which is a risk factor for both indigestion and anxiety for various reasons. It is generally recommended that healthy individuals get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise three times a week. More is even better and can help increase positive results.
Anxiety and indigestion can also be cured by eating smaller meals more often and consuming the right types of foods. Not only does this reduce the risk of heartburn and stomach upset, but keeping your body functioning with foods rich in vitamins and minerals is a good way to combat anxiety. Certain foods have also been shown to reduce depression by increasing certain chemicals in the brain. These can include dark chocolate, habanero or jalapeño peppers, and salmon.
Additional remedies for anxiety and indigestion are taking a daily vitamin, consuming enough fluids, meditation and deep breathing, and herbal remedies. Anything that reduces stress can also help because it relieves anxiety, thus making any lingering pain from indigestion more bearable. Anything that a patient finds pleasurable can be used as a stress reducer. In some cases, prescription drugs may be needed.
Patients should not attempt to treat anxiety and indigestion at home without first speaking to a doctor. There are various conditions that can cause both symptoms, all of which should be treated if they last for more than two weeks. Untreated anxiety can lead to severe depression, panic attacks, or even suicidal thoughts or feelings. Indigestion could signal an underlying health problem that may need treatment.
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