Fact 4: Not Just About Acid
While it’s easy to pin all the blame on increased stomach acid, the story of stress-induced dyspepsia is more intricate. Yes, heightened acid levels play a significant role, but there’s another, equally crucial player: the stomach wall’s sensitivity. Under stress, this wall doesn’t just come in contact with more acid; it also becomes more sensitive to it.
The stomach’s lining is usually a robust barrier, adept at managing the harsh stomach environment. However, prolonged stress can alter this. Even regular acid levels, which would typically be harmless, can start causing discomfort. It’s like having a heightened sense of touch suddenly, where even a gentle brush feels pronounced.
This increased sensitivity can be attributed to various factors. The reduced blood flow, due to stress, can make the stomach lining more susceptible. There’s also the fact that stress can lead to inflammation, making the stomach lining more reactive. The persistent surge of cortisol can directly impact the stomach wall’s receptors, changing their response to stimuli.
Another interesting angle is the microbiome. Our gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, playing a pivotal role in digestion. Stress can alter this microbiome balance, leading to a more reactive gut environment. These microorganisms, when out of balance, can contribute to a host of digestive issues, including heightened sensitivity.
Wrapping up this fact, while acid is undoubtedly a significant contributor to stress-induced dyspepsia, it’s not the lone villain. The stomach wall’s increased sensitivity, whether due to altered blood flow, inflammation, or microbiome changes, is equally responsible. Addressing only the acid without considering sensitivity would be an incomplete approach. (4)
