Did you know you have a complex network of microbes, nerves, and other cells known as the second brain located inside your gut? This second brain, also known as the gut-brain connection, is responsible for that sinking pit in your stomach you may feel when anxious or butterflies when you are excited or nervous. Because of this unique relationship, mental and emotional challenges can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
Your gut is comprised of your stomach, intestines, colon, and supporting structures like the liver and gallbladder. Its main function is to digest and absorb nutrients from your food and then excrete waste. The gut has a specific microbiome of different bacteria, yeast, and fungi that help the GI system function normally.
The gut contains the enteric nervous system, also known as the ENS. The ENS is made up of two thin layers of nerve cells that line the GI system from the esophagus to the rectum. The ENS plays a role in several aspects of the digestive process and is smart enough to adapt to ever-changing digestion needs, such as diet alterations or changes in gut bacteria.
The ENS connects the brain to the digestive system and sends messages back and forth to control secretions, blood flow, the release of hormones, and motility in the gut.
The answer is yes. Stress can cause diarrhea. Stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline speed up digestion, leading to diarrhea. Stress can also increase gut sensitivity and impact gut bacteria, making you more likely to experience diarrhea.
People who struggle with stress-related diarrhea are often diagnosed with something known as stress-induced irritable bowel syndrome. This condition causes diarrhea in response to emotional stress and is often managed through stress-reducing techniques such as exercise, mindfulness, and therapy.
The best way to treat stress-related diarrhea is through lifestyle and diet changes. If your diarrhea is directly related to feeling stressed or overwhelmed, the best thing you can do is find ways to reduce your stress levels. You can reduce your stress by practicing meditation or yoga or taking a few deep breaths. It can also be helpful to remain hydrated and to keep a food diary to document foods that may be contributing to your symptoms so that you can avoid them.
In most cases, stress-related diarrhea goes away once the stress that caused it is gone, but sometimes, it can last days or even weeks. If your stress-related diarrhea just won’t go away, it’s time to see a doctor, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or weight loss. These symptoms may indicate that something more than stress is causing your diarrhea.
Take control of your digestive health – schedule an appointment today!
Related:
If you have not registered with the new gPortal yet please select the Register/Learn More button for instructions on registering.
Please note that your current /old patient portal credentials will become inactive after August 31, 2022, so update your account today to avoid any disruption in accessibility.
To pay your bill online, please choose the correct option below: select the “Clinic Locations” button if you’re paying your Physician or Clinic Statement, or select the “ASC Locations” button if you’re paying your Procedure Statement at one of our Ambulatory Surgical Centers.
Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio (GCSA) is a Professional Association owned by the physicians that practice within it. GCSA’s physicians are directly involved in the management of patient services. GCSA physicians have indirect ownership interest in our Histology/Pathology, Anesthesia, Infusion and Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC).
