Can Stress Cause Nausea?

Stress as a Medical Condition

Stress affects all systems and organs of the body. It is now recognized by the medical community that stress plays a role in chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. The stomach is no exception to the organs affected by stress. Over time, cumulative stress on the stomach can lead to digestive problems, including chronic vomiting, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome.

How Stress Causes Nausea

Stress's effect on nausea ranges from "butterflies" in the stomach to extremely painful stomach ulcers. Though both conditions differ in severity and duration, they have the same root cause: hormones released into the stomach as a result of stress or anxiety. For instance, when a person feels stressed, his body produces the human stress response (also called the fight-or-flight response). His heart beats faster, his pupils dilate and adrenaline surges through his veins. Adrenaline eventually hits the stomach, where it causes stomach acid to increase and produce the "butterflies" sensation.

How to Cope with Stress-Induced Nausea

If you feel stressed and feel your stomach beginning to hurt, take deep breaths. You can ease your nausea by reducing the human stress response, and stopping the release of adrenaline into your body. Besides relaxing, exercise acts as an excellent outlet for stress, and can stimulate the release of relaxing neurotransmitters that combat stress hormones. As far as your diet, steer clear of coffee and other stimulants, as well as spicy foods that can contribute to stomach irritation.

Resources

• Stress and anxiety