Your Digestive System Might Be Harmed By Stress.

Stress during the pandemic has escalated to dangerous levels as various studies confirm that more than 70-75% of Indians report stress-related problems. In the face of this new norm, we invite many ailments from obesity, heart disease, depression, and stress-induced asthma.

Stress can change the way our bodies work, including the digestive system. Many studies show that stressful life events are linked to various digestive disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Stress can cause behavioral and mental disorders such as anxiety and depression and interfere with the function of visceral organs, especially the digestive system. Stress from various sources causes changes in the brain-gut axis, which ultimately leads to various gastrointestinal diseases.

Common illnesses include IBD, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), heartburn, allergic reactions to food antigens, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), says Dr. Rakesh Patel, a senior gastroenterologist. , Fortis Kalyan Hospital.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's (CD), is a chronic, recurrent, and remitting inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of people worldwide. , Disturbances of the gut microbiota, diet, infection, lifestyle, mental stress, sleep disturbances, smoking, and exposure to antibiotics at a young age have been shown to influence the development of IBD based on research over the past few decades," sai" Dr.

Symptoms of IBD

Symptoms of IBD can vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the inflammation and the location of the outbreak. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Patients tend to have periods of active disease followed by periods of remission. The signs and symptoms are:

"It i" essential to see a doctor if you notice any permanent changes in your bowel habits or if you have signs and symptoms of IBD. While IBD is usually not fatal, it is a severe condition and in some cases can lead to life-threatening complications," add "d Dr. patel.

To deal with stress

To reduce IBD exacerbations, it is not always enough to take medication and stick to a treatment plan. It can also help to find ways to reduce your stress levels.

Try biologic feedback: non-drug therapies that can teach you how to control your body. For example, this will lead you to lower your heart rate and relieve muscle tension when you are under stress. Eating cautiously is known to help because stress causes episodes of overeating or anorexia.

Following a specific diet is essential. For example, it is better to follow a vegetarian diet because eating meat increases the outbreak of IBD. Exercise stimulates your brain to release neurotransmitters that affect your mood and relieve depression and anxiety. Practice also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity at least three to five times a week.