Medical experts in the UAE are reporting an increase in patients experiencing stomach discomfort, bloating, and other gut-related problems, attributing these issues to elevated levels of stress and anxiety. They caution that prolonged mental stress can disrupt digestion, trigger acid reflux, and even lead to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The fast-paced lifestyle, coupled with work-related pressures and personal anxieties, has emerged as a significant contributor to these health concerns.

One patient, Ahmed Al Khatib, has faced persistent stomach issues for the past year despite being active and mindful of his dietary choices. He experienced bloating, cramps, and unpredictable digestion, but found that conventional treatments provided only temporary relief. After discussing his situation with a psychologist friend, he realized that his gut issues were linked to stress rather than food intolerances. Al Khatib stated, “For months, I thought I had some undiagnosed food intolerance… But after speaking to my psychologist friend, I started addressing my stress, setting boundaries at work, taking mindful breaks, and also with some medication my stomach began to settle.”

Similarly, 50-year-old Arvind K. experienced significant stress after losing his long-term job six months ago. This uncertainty affected his mental well-being, leading to sleepless nights, loss of appetite, and frequent indigestion. He discovered that his emotional struggles were closely tied to his physical health. Arvind remarked, “I never thought my worries about work would show up as constant stomach pain,” highlighting the unexpected connection between his emotional state and gut health. Medical professionals explained to him that chronic stress can disrupt the gut microbiome, resulting in symptoms like bloating and acid reflux.

According to medical experts, stress, worry, and anxiety commonly trigger stomach discomfort and other gastrointestinal symptoms, which are usually temporary and not severe. However, they warn that ongoing stress and anxiety can have detrimental effects on the digestive system, potentially leading to more serious and long-term gastrointestinal issues. Dr. Najeeb Salah Abdulrahman, a specialist gastroenterologist at International Modern Hospital-Dubai, emphasized the brain-gut connection, stating, “When the brain perceives stress, it releases stress hormones, which can affect gut function. This can lead to symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation, nausea, and may cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).”

Abdulrahman also noted that this trend is especially prevalent in urban areas, where high competition and fast-paced lifestyles contribute to chronic stress. He referenced a study published in Gastroenterology, which indicated a rise in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), like IBS, during the Covid-19 pandemic, linking this increase to heightened stress and anxiety levels. Dr. Mahroos Al Rejjal, a specialist in gastroenterology at Saudi German Hospital Ajman, added that there is evidence suggesting that gastrointestinal symptoms often precede the development of mood disorders in about 50 percent of individuals with psychological disorders.

To effectively manage stress-related gut issues, doctors recommend a holistic approach that addresses both mental and physical health. Dr. Abdulrahman suggested practices like yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness to help reduce stress levels. He also pointed out that regular physical activity can improve gut motility and alleviate stress. A diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics is essential for supporting gut health, and he underscored the importance of quality sleep, recommending seven to eight hours each night to mitigate stress and gut issues.