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Gut Issues and Anxiety

SxZ
Community Member

Hey guys,

Over the last month and a half, I've been experiencing a lot of digestive related symptoms preceded by an emotional event and bouts of bad anxiety over a period of a month. Basically everything from constant belching, lower abdominal cramps, gas, constipation, upper abdominal discomfort (particularly when pressure's applied), feeling of fullness etc. I never realized how much I took for granted our most basic functions-to see how disconcerting it is to be effected by digestive issues everyday and how it can negatively impact your overall physical/mental well being.

I know it's not the most comfortable topic to discuss but I understand digestive issues are a common albeit troubling symptom of anxiety that many people struggle with. I just wanted to know if any others have had recurring gut issues related to anxiety and if you'd care to share your experiences.

Thank you.

1 Reply 1

that guy
Community Member

Gday SxZ

Yes I've also had digestive issues due to anxiety, in the past I've had nausea constipation, gut pain, gas, fullness etc during extreme anxiety episodes, the most recent being a few weeks back. At first when this happened, this freaked me out a lot, for a few weeks I was convinced I had cancer.

Gut issues tend to be very common in people with Anxiety, due to whats called the Gut Brain axis. The Brain is very closely connected to the stomach and gut so the relationship is quite close, this is why usually when we are going through intense anxiety episodes, the first area to react is usually the gut area.

What really helps me is some peppermint tea with some probiotics. Exercise and a good diet can also help at times. If your scared about the symptoms, always check with your doctor! Sometimes some reassurance goes a long way.

hope your symptoms get better soon, Best of luck!