Most people assume heartburn (otherwise known as GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition of excessive acid production. This is understandable since we use antacids to decrease acid production and our symptoms seem to improve. But in reality, heartburn is a neurological problem.
Neurologically impaired patients frequently suffer from gastrointestinal tract problems, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
When these nerves are pinched, they cannot effectively deliver messages between the brain and your digestive system. When this happens, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), acid reflux and heartburn, constipation and other digestive issues arise.
Acid reflux and anxiety may share a close link. Some research suggests that stress and anxiety might make acid reflux symptoms worse. Anxiety and stress may also be contributing factors to acid reflux in some cases. Conversely, acid reflux can be stressful and may cause anxiety in some people.
Patients with GERD showed higher risk developing dementia than control group, with an aHR of 1.34 (95% C.I., 1.07, 1.67). In GERD patients between above 70 years old, the risk of developing dementia was higher than that of the control groups (aHR = 1.34; 95% C.I., 1.01, 1.77).
Stress caused by anxiety may also affect contractions occurring in the esophagus, which propel food toward the stomach. If these contractions become irregular, it can lead to reflux. Finally, high stress and anxiety levels may increase the production of stomach acid.
The results of this study clearly demonstrate that patients with typical reflux symptoms who have failed twice-daily PPI therapy and have a well-defined diagnosis of hypersensitive esophagus will benefit from treatment with citalopram.
The most common cause is food that's acidic or high in fat—like citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, chocolate, coffee, cheese, and peppermint. Spicy foods or large meals can also be the root of distress. Other sources of heartburn include aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as some sedatives and blood pressure medications.
Acid reflux happens because a valve at the end of your esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter, doesn't close properly when food arrives at your stomach. Acid backwash then flows back up through your esophagus into your throat and mouth, giving you a sour taste.
The esophagus, stomach, and the rest of the digestive tract are innervated by the vagus nerve. This junction itself regulates the food and fluid that is moving from the esophagus to the stomach. This is a very important function because this is one of the things that can contribute to acid reflux.
Common gastrointestinal symptoms in neurologic disorders include sialorrhea, dysphagia, gastroparesis, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, constipation, diarrhea, and fecal incontinence.
The most common neurologic diseases affecting gastrointestinal function are stroke, parkinsonism, multiple sclerosis, and diabetic neuropathy.
Many people living with MS experience gastrointestinal symptoms caused or made worse by their illness. These symptoms include heartburn, indigestion, bloating, and regurgitation.
Yes, it's possible. Emotional stress can increase acid production in the stomach, aggravating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In people with GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter muscle (which acts as a door between the stomach and the esophagus) doesn't work properly.
These symptoms accompanying acid reflux (or any time) should always mean a trip to the emergency room: Feeling confused or sudden weakness. When the reflux moves/relocates from how you typically experience it. Fainting/loss of consciousness, even briefly.
Water. In general, drinking water can help balance the pH of a particularly acidic meal, which may help to lower the risk of acid reflux. Studies show that drinking mineral water with a high hydrogen carbonate content can help to alleviate the frequency and severity of acid reflux.
If you are experiencing heartburn on a daily basis, it is likely time to be evaluated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Persistent, untreated GERD may lead to more serious conditions. Sometimes, it can be a precursor to other diseases, including cancer.
If you experience frequent (more than two times per week) or severe heartburn, or if your heartburn is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention.
Vagus Nerve Damage
You'll notice issues with your voice, problems with your throat, an increased heart rate, brain fog, excessively high or low blood pressure, and gut problems. Here are some specific conditions to look for: Vocal cord issues that cause a hoarse, wheeze voice or loss of voice entirely.