CAN ULCER BE CAUSED BY WORRY AND ANXIETY?

Yes, chronic worry and anxiety can contribute to the development and worsening of ulcers, although they are not direct causes. Here’s how worry and anxiety play a role:

1.     Increased Stomach Acid Production: Chronic anxiety and worry stimulate the release of stress hormones, particularly cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase stomach acid production. High levels of acid can erode the stomach lining and lead to an ulcer, especially if protective factors are compromised.

2.   Reduced Immune Function: Persistent anxiety can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections like H. pylori, a bacterium strongly linked to ulcers. If someone already has H. pylori, anxiety may exacerbate the bacteria's effects.

3.   Gastrointestinal Changes: Anxiety can alter gastrointestinal function, slowing down or speeding up digestion. This can lead to increased acid exposure in the stomach or intestines, causing irritation and inflammation.

4.     Behavioral Factors: People with high levels of worry and anxiety may be more likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or use NSAIDs, all of which can damage the stomach lining. These habits often accompany stress and contribute to ulcer risk.

5.   Delayed Healing: Chronic stress, worry, and anxiety can impair the body’s natural healing processes, making it harder for existing ulcers to heal or for minor irritations to recover, potentially leading to the formation of a full-blown ulcer.

While worry and anxiety don’t directly cause ulcers, they increase the risk and severity by creating an environment in which the stomach lining is more vulnerable to damage. Managing anxiety and incorporating stress-reduction techniques can help reduce ulcer risk, especially when combined with a healthy diet and medical treatment if needed.