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Most of us link stomach issues to food poisoning, spicy meals, or infections. Rarely do we pause to think that our stress levels, daily habits, and lifestyle choices might be silently hurting our stomach lining. For many people, ulcers seem like something caused only by spicy food or poor eating habits, but as Dr Kandarp Saxena, Consultant, Gastrointestinal Sciences, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur explains, “Stress and lifestyle choices play a much bigger role than most people realize.” What Are Stomach Ulcers? Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are painful sores that form on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. They occur when the protective mucus layer weakens, allowing stomach acid to damage the underlying tissue. According to Dr Saxena, “While infection and long-term use of painkillers are common causes, lifestyle factors often make ulcers worse or slow down their recovery.” What Are the Causes? Stress, along with routine habits, can harm our stomachs significantly. Some common causes include: Mind-Body Connection: Stress doesn’t just stay in your mind; it finds its way into your body. Prolonged anxiety or emotional pressure can increase stomach acid, which irritates the gut lining. “Your stomach often reflects what your mind is going through,” says Dr. Saxena. Irregular Eating Patterns: Skipping meals and then overeating puts unnecessary pressure on digestion, leading to disruption in its functioning. Overuse of Painkillers: Many people consume painkillers without a doctor’s prescription. These medicines irritate the stomach lining when taken frequently. “Self-medication, especially with painkillers, is one of the silent contributors to ulcer formation,” warns Dr. Saxena. Consumption of Tobacco and Alcohol: Addiction to substances like cigarettes and alcohol weakens the stomach’s protective lining, making ulcers form more easily. Poor Sleep and Lack of Downtime: When the body doesn’t rest enough, it cannot repair itself, leaving the stomach in a more vulnerable state. How Can It Be Prevented? The good news, as Dr. Saxena emphasizes, is that “ulcers don’t have to define your life. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference.” Here’s how: Manage Stress: Practicing yoga, meditation, or simple breathing exercises can ease both the mind and body. “Even five minutes of deep breathing daily can improve digestion and reduce acid-related discomfort,” advises Dr. Saxena. Eat Mindfully: Have smaller meals on time, with balanced nutrients, water, and fiber as per your body’s needs. Limit Alcohol and Smoking: Cutting down on these habits significantly reduces ulcer risk. Also, avoid consuming too much caffeine. Prioritize Rest and Exercise: Ensure both the quantity and quality of sleep. Regular physical activities like running or cycling help keep the body fit and resilient. Recognize Warning Signs: In severe cases, untreated ulcers can lead to bleeding, blockage, or even perforation of the digestive tract. “If left untreated, ulcers can cause life-threatening complications or even lead to gastric cancer,” cautions Dr. Saxena. Tailored Treatment: “Ulcer management depends on the grading or severity of the disease,” explains Dr Saxena. “It may involve dietary modification, medical therapy, or, in rare cases, surgical intervention such as gastrectomy performed through open or advanced robotic surgery.” The Mind-Gut Connection Most of us underestimate the link between our emotions, lifestyle, and physical health. Ulcers are a reminder that the stomach feels more than hunger. As Dr Saxena puts it, “Your gut is like a mirror, it reflects how you live and how you feel.” By listening to our bodies and treating them with care, we can keep both our minds and stomachs at peace. After all, a calmer life often leads to a healthier gut.
