Stress and GERD

In patients with GERD, auditory stress increased perceptual response to intraesophageal acid exposure.

Little research has been done to evaluate the effect of stress in exacerbating the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Indirect evidence suggests that stressed individuals with GERD have a heightened awareness of esophageal acid perfusion (Brain 2003; 126:669). In a recent, randomized crossover study, investigators examined whether stress influences perceptual and emotional responses to intraesophageal acid infusion. The study involved 46 patients with typical GERD symptoms (heartburn and acid regurgitation at least twice weekly) and 10 healthy controls.

Study participants underwent upper endoscopy to assess the extent of their disease. Seventeen GERD patients were found to have erosive esophagitis (EE), and 29 were considered to ha…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors