Acid Reflux and Stress: Are They Connected?

Is there really a connection between stress and acid reflux? The short answer is yes, but it's an indirect connection. Doctors haven't been able to link stress and acid reflux directly, but they do know that there is a relationship between the two.

Let me explain. What happens when you get stressed? If you're like most people, you might eat more than you normally would and you're probably going to make worse food choices. You'll probably the sleep less. If you're a smoker or a drinker, then you might pick those habits back up. These activities are all direct causes of acid reflux or GERD. Since stress is the original cause we say that it indirectly causes acid reflux.

So the next question is, what can you do to reduce stress? The simple answer is to figure out what's causing you stress and get rid of it. Are you trying to do too much? Are you having trouble with your relationships? Are you having financial trouble? These are all common causes of stress in everyday life.

After you figured out what's causing you stress and ultimately acid reflux, you have to figure out how to eliminate the cause or reduce your stress level. Let's take a look at a couple ways you can reduce your stress level.

Do you exercise regularly? If not, that may be something you want to try. Not only can regular exercise reduce your stress level, but it can help you lose weight if you need to and improve your health in general. Plus, losing weight is a known way to reduce acid reflux symptoms.

If you already have an exercise program or if you don't like to exercise you may want to try and unwind or relax a little bit. Try some meditation or get a massage. Why not listen to relaxing CD on the way home from work instead of talk radio? All of these methods of relaxation can help you to avoid overeating, smoking or drink alcohol, which are likely to increase your frequency of acid reflux.

I have one last piece of advice for you. If you're looking for ways to reduce stress, try not to find something that's going to break the bank. Adding financial trouble to the mix will only cause more stress and ultimately worsen your acid reflux symptoms.