Gastritis due to anxiety is a stomach ailment which, despite not causing inflammation of the stomach like classic gastritis, can cause similar symptoms such as heartburn, burning and feeling of fullness in the stomachThis type of gastritis is triggered by emotional problems such as stress, anxiety and nervousness.
Anxiety-induced gastritis is curable, and can be treated with Dietary changes and antacid medicationswhich help to calm the stomach lining to prevent heartburn. It is also important to control nerves and emotions, so the role of a psychologist in treatment is essential.
Conversely: anxiety due to gastritis
The stomach complaints most strongly associated with anxiety and depression are conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, a 2011 Stanford University study found that Short-term digestive problems can also lead to mental disorders.
The authors started the research with the premise that A person's anxiety levels can be exacerbated by the condition of their gut.This idea led scientists to believe that gastrointestinal disorders can affect an individual's psychological well-being.
Appropriately, the study concluded that gastric discomfort during the beginning of life seems to make the brain switches to a permanently depressed and anxious state.
Of course, Not all stomach irritation is related to lifelong psychological problemsThe Stanford study noted that the exact impact likely depends on when a GI problem occurs during someone's development. It is also likely to be influenced by the genetics and other environmental factors.
Anxiety is like a shadow that always accompanies us, but learning to walk under its light makes us stronger.
Symptoms of gastritis due to anxiety
The main symptoms of anxiety gastritis are: Stomach pain and constant discomfortHowever, other signs also stand out, such as:
- Nausea and feeling of full stomach.
- Abdominal bloating and pain.
- Poor digestion and frequent belching.
- Headache and general malaise.
- Loss of appetite, vomiting or feeling sick.
These symptoms can appear at any time, but They intensify during periods of anxiety. However, these signs may also be present in other types of gastritis and confuse the diagnosis of the disease.
How can this be solved?
To put an end to gastritis due to anxiety, it is advisable to take antacid medications or medications that They reduce the production of acidity in the stomachalways recommended by a medical professional. However, continued use is not suitable of these medications.
Therefore, the most effective treatment to end anxiety gastritis is resolution of emotional problems through relaxation techniques such as meditation, a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Likewise, the accompaniment of a psychologist It is an option worth taking into account.
A great home remedy for gastritis is chamomile teawhich should be taken 2 to 3 times a day to activate its calming effect. Other natural calming herbal remedies include valerian, lavender and passion flower tea.
Diet for gastritis due to anxiety
The foods recommended for the treatment of gastritis due to anxiety are those easy to digest and with a calming effectas:
- Lean meat boiled or grilled.
- The fish.
- Boiled vegetables.
- Peeled fruits.
It is recommended drink lots of water immediately after an attack of pain and malaise, with a gradual return to a normal diet using natural seasonings and avoiding milk.
Foods to avoid are those who are high in fat and sugaras they can irritate the stomach, among them are:
- Red meat.
- Sausages.
- Bacon.
- Fried foods.
- Chocolate.
- Sweets.
- Coffee.
- Pepper.
It is also recommended Do not smoke and do not drink alcoholic beveragesno artificial teas, no soft drinks, no carbonated water. Other important precautions are Do not go to bed right after mealseat slowly and in quiet places.
With these measures you can prevent new episodes of gastritis.
How does a psychologist help?
The treatment of anxiety gastritis is similar to the treatment for other types of gastritis. The difference is that there is also a psychological component.
Therefore, to solve it, it is important go to therapy and identify the real cause. Sometimes it is simply an isolated and sudden problem, however, at other times, the problem is deeper. It is at this moment that the role of a psychologist is fundamental.
The psychologist will outline the strategy in which you can follow different types of therapy. according to personal situation of each patient:
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common to treat anxiety disorders. According to science, it is the most effective to treat anxiety disorder. social anxietythe disorder of generalized anxietythe phobias and panic disordersamong other conditions.
Exposure therapy
Exposure therapy is one of the most common Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) methods used to treat a variety of anxiety disorders -including specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, and PTSD.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is also a highly effective type of CBT used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety.
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Interpersonal therapy
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on social roles and relationships. In IPT, the psychologist will help you identify any interpersonal problems, then introduce healthy ways to express emotions and improve communication with others.
Psychoanalytic therapy
The purpose of psychoanalytic therapy is to find the subconscious conflicts that, according to the Freudian model, reflect the symptoms of anxiety.
Therapy is not only the best method to know yourself
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
This type of therapy, (ACT), is another method that has been shown to be valid for a variety of anxiety disorders. It involves identifying values in life and then acting on these values.
Art therapy
Art therapy is a non-verbal, experience-oriented method. It involves using visual art (such as painting, drawing, sculpting) to express and process emotions while practicing mindfulness and relaxation.
These are the different ways in which a psychologist can help you if you consider that you need support to solve gastritis due to anxiety. If you are looking for a psychologist, in Psychia We will be happy to guide you to find the solution.
At we have been experts in online therapy since 2012. Throughout our career we have helped more than 2,000 patients overcome various emotional problems. If you are interested in seeking the help of an online psychologist, you can request a free first session by clicking on the button below.
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