Bloating due to anxiety is commonly referred to as “nervous stomach.” It’s a physical sign of anxiety but usually confuses people. This symptom can be unsettling and confusing.
But the question remains the same “what does anxiety stomach pain feel like?”
Understanding the connection between stress and stomach pain is important. It helps in managing the condition.
Now, let’s look into the reasons and find coping strategies.
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How Is the Bloating Due to Anxiety?
Our gut has a hidden enteric nervous system (ENS), often called the “second brain.” It’s in the digestive tract and comprises nerves, neurons, and neurotransmitters. Its main work is to regulate digestion and connect to our brain. The research found a vital, complex network in our bodies. It is crucial to its functioning.
The ENS maintains a constant connection with the brain. What happens in your brain impacts gut health and vice versa? For example, think about eating something juicy. Your stomach will start releasing juices even before you get to the food.
Thus, a nervous stomach can either be the cause or the result of anxiety, stress, or depression.
Stress Response and the Gut
The nervous system detects threats and triggers responses. High stress or anxiety activates the “fight or flight” response. This releases noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol.
Chronic high stress can damage your digestive system. It also causes:
- Impaired immune functioning
- Difficulty metabolizing glucose
- Disrupted bowel contractions change how often you visit the bathroom.
Stress or anxiety can turn average body functions into painful sensations. They also disrupt gut bacteria, causing discomfort and digestive issues.
What Does Anxiety Stomach Pain Feel Like?
Some people often have a nervous stomach. Others experience it rarely or once. It’s not a formal condition, but doctors recognize it. Its causes can include mental health, emotional state, or gut health.
A nervous stomach usually isn’t a sign of a severe issue. It may make you feel:
- Cramping, churning, tightness, or knots in the stomach
- A “butterfly” feeling in the stomach
- Shivering, shaking, or muscle twitching
The effects of gut stress can manifest uniquely and all over the body.
Other symptoms include:
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Upset stomach after eating
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- Depression
- Anxiousness or racing thoughts
- Excessive sleeping or insomnia
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
How Can You tell if Your Symptoms Indicate Something Serious?
Sometimes, a nervous stomach signals a severe issue. So, stay alert. Here are the signs it might be serious:
- Blood in the stool
- Weight loss
- Black, tarry stools
- Abnormal lab values (a sign of anemia)
- Vomiting
If you see any of these symptoms, visit a gastroenterologist for tests.
How to Stop Anxiety Stomach Pain?
Stomach pain usually indicates another issue. Treatments often target the underlying problem.
When anxiety causes stomach pain, the focus shifts to managing stress and anxiety. This approach lessens the impact of stress on the gut.
Activating the calming nervous system is vital. This system calms the body. The fastest method is deep breathing and full inhalation. Inhale through your nose, then exhale through your mouth.
Some other precautions and treatment options that may help include the following:
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Eat Well
Your diet can affect a nervous stomach, adding to stress or anxiety. Include more fiber and stay hydrated.
Also, regular meals boost your immune system. Avoid processed and sugary foods. Aim for 80% healthy foods and 20% others.
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Try Herbal Treatment
Peppermint, lemon balm, spearmint, and lavender are effective antispasmodics. They relieve stomach issues like gas, anxiety, and cramps. These herbs relax stomach muscles and reduce spasms, offering natural digestive relief.
For nausea, try raw ginger root. If you prefer something sweet, ginger candy works too. Are you feeling thirsty? Go for ginger ale or tea. These ginger remedies can ease stomach issues and reduce nausea.
For a long-term fix, try daily supplements with adaptogenic herbs. Ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea are examples. These herbs help your body handle stress better.
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Practice Mindfulness
Stress and anxiety often come from worrying about the future or things you can’t control. This focus makes it harder to manage what you can, increasing pressure.
To handle stress and anxiety, regain control over your thoughts. This calms you and improves stress management. Mental exercises help. Also, progressive muscle relaxation, grounding techniques, journaling, and meditation should be considered.
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Exercise
You can boost your mood by triggering endorphins, your body’s feel-good chemicals. These hormones quickly relieve stress and sadness. When you’re down, try this natural method. Vigorous exercise boosts mood by releasing endorphins. Studies show it can reduce stress by up to 40%.
Try to schedule regular workouts. Choose activities you enjoy. This will help relieve stress and anxiety.
Conclusion-What does anxiety stomach pain feel like?
Deep breaths, healthy meals, meditation, and exercise ease anxiety and stomach issues. They calm nerves, reduce bloating, and settle digestion. Lowering stress boosts gut health and alleviates discomfort. These practices balance the mind and body, preventing tummy troubles.
FAQs
What does anxiety stomach pain feel like?
Cramping, churning, and tightness grip your gut. Butterflies flutter, and knots twist inside you. These signals show anxiety’s hold on your stomach. It’s a physical sign of mental unease.
Can stress cause pain in your stomach?
Stress usually causes mild discomfort. But it can also lead to severe issues. So, watch for bloody or black stools and weight loss. These need medical attention.
Can a nervous stomach be a sign of a more serious condition?
Stomach anxiety is usually not severe. However, see a doctor if you vomit, have bloody stools, or get abnormal test results. Don’t ignore these warning signs.
How does stress affect digestion?
Anxiety triggers a chain reaction. Hormones disrupt our balance. Digestion slows. The gut reacts, swelling or purging.
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