Ask a doctor - Can anxiety cause dyspepsia?

Q. Can anxiety cause dyspepsia?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Yes, it is possible for anxiety to cause dyspepsia. Dyspepsia, which includes symptoms such as bloating, nausea and abdominal discomfort, can be caused by several health issues including gastrointestinal diseases, endocrine disorders and metabolic disturbances. But some research suggests that psychological factors like stress and anxiety may also contribute to the development of dyspepsia.

A 2018 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology looked at the prevalence of psychological illness in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) – a form of chronic indigestion without an underlying medical cause – versus healthy people without FD. The results showed more than a three-fold increased prevalence of anxiety and depression among patients with FD compared to individuals without FD. This suggests that mental health issues can influence the development of dyspepsia even when no organic cause has been identified.

Additionally, there are several mechanisms believed to link stress/anxiety with digestive symptoms such as those seen in dyspepsia: 1) Stressful situations directly activate parts of our brain called the visceral motor cortex that trigger contractions throughout the digestive system; 2) Stress activates hormones such as cortisol which can suppress digestion; 3) Anxiety alters your perception so you're more likely to feel physical sensations from inside your body; 4) When we worry or feel anxious our bodies divert blood flow away from our intestines leading to cramping and other uncomfortable sensations; 5). Stress might also increase inflammation within our digestive tract which could lead to discomfort like fatigue or bloating after eating certain foods or meals; 6). Finally, psychological factors like stress play a role in reducing production of saliva which helps us digest food normally when eating.

Therefore it’s clear why people experiencing severe levels anxiety might be vulnerable developing digestive conditions like dyspapsyas well as other gut related disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It's important for anyone struggling with this type symptom seek medical help get correctly diagnosed properly treated both physically mentally improve their quality life overall wellbeing.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.