Digestive problems can be initiated and further aggravated by the presence of stress. As the stress response lingers, immunity is compromised. Stress levels can make the digestive tract the perfect host for infection, disease and inflammation. Peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and esophageal reflux are all examples of such disorders that may be caused by stress.
Peptic Ulcers
A peptic ulcer is caused by the presence of helicobacter pylori (h. pylori). Peptic ulcers are found in the stomach lining, along the upper small intestine and in the esophagus. Symptoms of a peptic ulcer include pain that radiates throughout the abdomen and into the chest, followed by a burning sensation lasting from minutes to hours. Peptic ulcers can become aggravated at the presence or absence of food, and the problem worsens when the body is in a flat position. Peptic ulcers often go into remission for several days before returning. More severe symptoms of a peptic ulcer include vomiting of blood (red or black), dark colored blood in the stools, nausea, vomiting, weight loss and changes in overall appetite.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory condition of the colon and rectum. It is often considered an irritable bowel syndrome with symptoms including fever, bloody diarrhea, sharp abdominal pains, cramping and bleeding from the rectum and anus. These symptoms can range from very mild to moderate and can create a sense of urgency as well as frequency in the need to visit the bathroom. More severe symptoms and prolonged experience of this disorder can bring about achy joints, problems with the eyes, skin problems, liver damage, pancreatitis and gallbladder problems.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) currently affects 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include recurring abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating and altered bowel habits. Altered bowel habits range from mild to severe bouts of diarrhea and constipation and often include changes in stool frequency, form and color (to include the passage of white mucus material) and an increase the need to use the bathroom.
Esophageal Reflux
Esophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weakened and begins to allow acidic stomach fluid to pass into the esophagus and into the mouth. Symptoms include frequent heartburn, sour taste in the mouth/sour stomach, bitter stomach contents coming into the mouth (especially while lying down), scratchy or hoarse throat, difficulties swallowing, wheezing or coughing and increased presence of these symptoms following a meal. Severe symptoms range from inflammation to ulcers, bleeding, anemia, scarring and narrowing of the esophagus, Barrett's esophagus and even esophageal cancer.
References
- "Colitis: The Experience of Illness"; M. Kelly, M.; 1992.
- "A Delicate Balance: Living Successfully with Chronic Illness"; S. Wells.; 1998.
- "Esophageal Cancer"; American Cancer Society; 2010.
- "Colitis"; National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC); 2010.
