Can Stress Worsen GERD Symptoms?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasingly recognized as a major health concern among young adults.. Globally, prevalence ranges from 2.5% in East Asia to 33.1% in the Middle East. Notably, 20% of all students and nearly half of GERD-positive students report symptoms disrupting daily life. Key risk factors include male gender, smoking/ex-smoking, non-healthcare majors, and high stress. Stress worsens GERD by increasing acid production and delaying stomach emptying. These findings highlight GERD’s growing impact on student health and healthcare systems.

References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2049080119301426?via%3Dihub