We often hear about "butterflies in your stomach". Did you know that stomach health and emotional well-being are interconnected? Intense emotions such as stress and anxiety can lead to stomach problems and in turn, cause stomach issues. The reason for this is that the stomach is sensitive to emotion. The emotions of stress, anger, and anxiety can cause signs in the stomach. Numerous stomach disorders can cause extreme discomfort and stress or emotional gastritis is a difficult one to manage.

Stress-induced gastritis can be a stomach issue called functional dyspepsia, or non-ulcer dyspepsia. While it doesn't cause stomach inflammation like traditional gastritis, it may produce similar symptoms like a burning sensation, heartburn, and a feeling of a full stomach. This kind of gastritis may be brought on by emotional problems such as anxiety, stress, and tension.

Contrary to other types of gastritis, which are caused by infections or habits of life, stress gastritis or emotional gastritis can be triggered due to anxiety, stress, and anxiousness. Stress, anxiety, or sadness, if not addressed for long periods, become chronic and may cause serious health problems.

If stress and emotional tension are controlled effectively, the signs of the illness decrease gradually. In certain instances, the treatment of psychological and physical stress is essential. Gastritis caused by stress is treatable and can be treated by diet changes and anti-acid medications that help soothe the stomach's mucosa in order not to trigger heartburn.

The most important aspect of treatment also includes the management and control of stress as well as emotions generally.

The main symptoms of Stress-induced Gastritis

The primary signs of gastritis caused by stress include gastric pain and discomfort that is constant. However, other signs could include:

• Nausea, and a feeling of being full;

• Abdominal swelling and pain

• Poor digestion and frequent burping;

• Headache and general malaise

• Vomiting, loss of appetite, or the urge to vomit.

The symptoms can manifest at any time but may become more intense when there is anxiety or stress. Certain of these symptoms could also be observed in different forms of gastritis, and this could make it difficult to determine the cause.

Options for treatment

The use of an antacid drug (e.g. Pepto Bismol), or medications that lower the production of stomach acids (e.g. pantoprazole or omeprazole) is usually suggested for treating gastritis that is caused by stress. You should take them as directed by your doctor's prescription.

Regular use of these medicines is not advised. Treatment should focus on managing emotional issues that can trigger symptoms. It could involve psychotherapy, online counselling, and relaxation techniques like meditation along with a healthy diet and regular physical exercise.

A fantastic natural remedy for gastritis at home is chamomile tea. It is recommended to drink at least 2 or 3 times every day to boost its calming effects. Other herbal remedies that are natural and calming include lavender, valerian, as well as passion flower tea.

Dietary guidelines for gastritis induced by stress

The best foods to eat for the treatment of gastritis caused by stress are ones that are easy to digest and possess the ability to calm like cooked or boiled meat that is lean, fish, cooked vegetables, and peeled fruit. Drinking plenty of water right away after the onset of symptoms is advised. A gradual, slow return to a normal eating routine is suggested with a preference for natural spices when flavouring food. Dairy products should be avoided.

Other foods to be avoided include foods that are high in sugar and fat and could upset the stomach like sausage, red meat bacon, fried food such as chocolate, sweets, coffee, and pepper. It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes and also soft drinks, artificial teas, and sparkling water, to avoid the recurrence of gastritis.

Other things to think about include avoiding lying down just after eating and avoiding drinking at mealtimes, eating slowly and in quiet areas.

Online Stress Counselling

Most people experience anxiety from time to time and, while a little amount of stress may motivate us, excessive or long-term stress can affect both our mental and physical health. Some people find that stress leads them to use unhealthy coping strategies like drinking or smoking cigarettes although this might appear to be an immediate solution, in reality, these methods are not solving the problem and can lead to addiction.

Recognizing the negative impact stress has on your life and recognizing that it isn't okay is a crucial first step. After you've admitted to yourself that you require support then you can look at the different options offered. The first point of contact could be your doctor or the “best psychologist near me” who can be capable of assessing the stress levels of your life and suggest suitable treatments.

A common recommendation given by online therapists is psychotherapy and counselling. Speaking with an online counsellor about your issues will help you identify the root of any issues that may be contributing to your stress, for instance, low self-esteem. Through working with your therapist, you will be able to determine your stress triggers and talk about ways to deal with these triggers.

Contribution by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Best Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Mr. Utkarsh Yadav, Counselling Psychologist