Panic attacks, for example, can cause a racing heart, fast breathing and excessive sweating.

But can anxiety directly affect your heartburn condition? Yes, a 2018 study has found that there is a direct correlation between stress and the weakening of the LES which is basically the barrier between your stomach content and the esophagus. If it becomes weak then stomach acid will be pushed back.

Another finding is that as you become stressed or upset your stomach produces more acid and you don’t want that when you suffer from acid reflux or GERD.

We can’t always control how we feel, specifically if one suffers from panic attacks, but we can change how our body will respond to these stressful conditions by following these guidelines:

1. Reduce or stop caffeine consumption so you can lower overall stress level.

2. Eat smaller meals to decrease stomach acid production.

3. Don’t eat at least 4-5 hours before bed time.

4. Take natural antacid like baking soda in water to balance stomach acidity.

5. Engage in some form of stress-relief method like meditation, deep breathing, yoga or any other type of exercise.

The above suggestions can certainly help but always remember that panic attacks and anxiety have an underlying cause. They can be prevented so please seek professional counseling if necessary. You don’t have to suffer.

Need guidance on how to control and manage your acid reflux? Check out my Heartburn No More program

The post Can you get heartburn from anxiety first appeared on Jeff Martin's Acid Reflux Blog.