It wasn't until a little over a month ago, when I returned to the United States after spending three symptom-free months in Panama, that I realized the huge role stress plays on the digestive tract. I ended my paradise-esque summer and jumped into a world where I had to scramble to catch up on all the doctors appointments I'd missed while out of the country, get ready for my first quarter at UCLA, and adjust to reverse-culture shock. I was also really struggling with being apart from my boyfriend and returning to long-distance after having lived together for three months. I spent the majority of my three months abroad without any stomach discomfort or digestive problems, but the first morning I woke up in my own bed back home my symptoms came rolling in like a tsunami.
- sharp, shooting pains on the sides of my stomach (think oblique area)
- an unusually bloated stomach (hence the IBS comic of the pregnant woman and the boated woman. I'm pretty petite and the way my stomach was reacting I looked about three months pregnant)
-uncomfortable & fowl smelling gas
-constipation
Once I adjusted to my new routine, got comfortable with my UCLA schedule, cleared away all my doctors appointments, and re-acclimated to having Skype dates instead of real dates as well as re-acclimating to life in LA in general, my symptoms calmed down. The bloat went away, regular bowel movements returned, pain ceased, and gas was no longer a terrible issue. As soon as my high levels of stress subsided, my stomach began to feel better.
If I had a surefire way to squash stress, this is where I'd tell you all how to end the tummy troubles, but unfortunately, I'm still learning to manage anxiety myself. I can't solve your stress for you, but hopefully I can make you realize that it's not your fault and it is a real condition. There's a stigma associated with stress that makes us feel like we should be able to control it, but if you're suffering abdominal issues due to stress know that you're not alone and it's not your fault.
Things not to do when your anxiety is causing you to have stomach issues:
DO NOT get caught in body dysmorphia. Remember that this bloat and size is not indicative of your true form or look. It's temporary.
DO NOT restrict food. Opt for choices that are mild and easily digestible. These are different for everyone, but fruits and dry cereal (without too much sugar or processing) is usually a safe bet. Smoothies are a great option too.
DO remember to cut yourself some slack, get lost in a good book or article like this one, and wait for it to pass.