Medical Facts About Anxiety You Need To Know

Weakened Immune System

Anxiety often leads to a higher number of colds or other minor illnesses due to a decreased immune response. The relationship between anxiety disorders and the immune system is well-documented but still not well understood. Anxiety can trigger the release of stress hormones, which then cause a variety of changes in the way immune systems respond to threats. Cortisol, an anti-inflammatory hormone, is released when the body is anxious or stressed in some way. Cortisol works by essentially weakening the antibodies that can increase inflammation. Unfortunately, these antibodies also fight germs, leaving individuals dealing with anxiety a little bit more vulnerable to the common cold and other similar illnesses.

Digestive Issues

Many of the most common physical side effects of anxiety and anxiety disorders are digestive issues. Anxiety is particularly known to cause diarrhea, indigestion, and abdominal cramps in many affected individuals, as well as more serious issues. Anxiety can also cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, or acid reflux, which can cause a painful buildup of stomach acid in the esophagus.

This acid can also result in ulceritis, gastritis, and even irritable bowel syndrome. While some over-the-counter antacids can relieve these symptoms, the best treatment is to resolve the cause of the anxiety. In the case of chronic anxiety, prolonged treatment, such as through counseling or anti-anxiety medication, is crucial to obtain relief from digestive issues.