Scientists from the Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu Medical and Research Center in China confirmed that increased symptoms of anxiety and depression are associated with an increased risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Research results published In the journal Scientific Reports (SciRep).
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic, relapsing disease caused by impaired motor function of the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is characterized by reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing heartburn and damaging the mucous membrane of the lower esophagus.
In a study involving 518 people with GERD, scientists confirmed that psycho-emotional distress increases the likelihood of developing this pathology. Researchers collected information about the subjects’ mental health and rated the severity of each volunteer’s anxiety and depression symptoms according to a specialized hospital scale.
The results showed a significant positive association between severe anxiety or depression symptoms and GERD. The incidence of GERD increased both in the presence of mild anxiety and in moderate and severe forms of the disorder. The highest incidence of GERD was found in anxious people with moderate to severe symptoms of depression.
Previously found A new way to treat depression in cancer.