Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Anxiety Disorders

Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Anxiety Disorders Panic Disorder Related Conditions Print Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Anxiety Disorders By Sheryl Ankrom linkedin Sheryl Ankrom is a clinical professional counselor and nationally certified clinical mental health counselor specializing in anxiety disorders. Learn about our editorial policy Sheryl Ankrom Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Emmy Ludwig, MD on October 01, 2015 Emmy Ludwig, MD, is board-certified in gastroenterology and hepatology. She practices at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Learn about our Medical Review Board Emmy Ludwig, MD Updated on September 06, 2019 OMG/Photodisc/Getty Images More in Panic Disorder Related Conditions Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Coping Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances commonly include symptoms of stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. When no medical cause for GI disturbances is found, they are often termed “functional GI symptoms.” Many studies have shown a correlation between anxiety, depression and functional GI symptoms.?? Generally, study results have demonstrated that people who have at least one GI symptom are more likely to have an anxiety disorder or depression than those without any GI symptoms. In fact, unexplained physical complaints, as a wholeâ€"fatigue, headache, stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, musculoskeletal painsâ€"were more commonly reported in individuals with an anxiety disorder and/or depression.?? Associated Symptoms Common GI symptoms that have been associated with anxiety disorders include:?? Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)Stomach painFlatulence (gas)Bloated or swollen abdomenDiarrhea, constipation or a combination of bothWhitish mucus in the stoolGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)Chest painDifficulty swallowingHoarseness of the voice, especially upon wakingPersistent dry coughMild pain or stuck in throat type sensationsBad breath When to See Your Doctor You should consult with your family doctor if you are experiencing unexplained mild to moderate gastrointestinal disturbances for more than a few days, or if your symptoms stop and then return. Your family doctor may order tests or refer you to a specialist to rule out any serious medical problem that may be causing your symptoms. If it is found that you have functional GI symptoms related to anxiety, there are many effective treatments available, which may include also treating your anxiety-related symptoms. Prescribed medications along with psychotherapy can help you to reduce your feelings of anxiety and develop healthy ways to cope with stress. Learning to manage your anxiety while treating your GI symptoms can be the most beneficial in helping you deal with both issues.?? GI Symptoms That May Indicate Urgent or Emergency Care Whether or not you believe your GI symptoms are anxiety-related, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible if your symptoms occur with any of the following:?? Unexplained weight lossPersistent, low-grade feverFeeling bloated or full after eating very littleBlood in the stoolHaving a bowel movement that is black, tarry and foul-smelling Immediate Medical Care Is Warranted If Your Symptoms Include: Extreme abdominal pain??Inability to have a bowel movementHigh feverExtreme diarrhea lasting more than one dayDisorientation or confusionChest, neck, shoulder or jaw painRapid or significantly decreased heart rateModerate to severe rectal bleedingVomiting blood (if the vomited matter looks like ground coffee, this may indicate blood)