Bariatric Surgery Archives - Maryland Bariatrics

Bariatric Vitamin Patches After Bariatric Surgery

Can You Take Bariatric Vitamin Patches After Surgery?

Written by Jeff Tormey on May 24, 2023. Posted in Bariatric Surgery.

A lot of people wonder, “Are vitamin patches for bariatric patients okay?” After all, liquid vitamins are recommended after bariatric surgery to help you heal faster and absorb nutrients. However, multivitamin capsules typically aren’t suggested until around seven months after surgery.

However, every surgeon or location has their own protocols. You should ultimately consult with your doctor to understand the best options for your situation. But, in this article, let’s cover whether vitamin patches after bariatric surgery are suggested, specifically.

Learn More: Foods To Stay Away From After Weight Loss Surgery

The Benefits Of Vitamins After Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric multivitamins help you get additional nutrients that your body may not be able to absorb or get by other means. After all, many times you’ll be on a special diet that restricts what you’re allowed to eat.

Taking vitamins can help you improve your energy levels, heart health, immune system, and more. It can even help you with your ligament and skin health. Of course, this goes to collagen and healing as well. For this reason, supplementation is incredibly effective after weight loss surgery, and that’s why most surgeons recommend it.

Gastric Bypass Vitamin Patches

Vitamin patches for bariatric surgery work by penetrating the pores of your skin. From here, they transport nutrients into your bloodstream. For getting certain nutrients like magnesium, this is fairly effective.

However, for most vitamins and minerals, this is not ideal. Particularly, vitamin K, vitamin B12, and vitamin A are too large molecularly to pass through the skin’s pores and be absorbed.

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) says that vitamin A and B12 are deficiencies that bariatric patients experience the most, and therefore a vitamin patch simply wouldn’t be adequate.

Therefore, at Ascension St. Agnes, we do not suggest vitamin patches. Contact our offices to understand alternatives that may help you get the nutrients that you need after your procedure.

Summary

Getting bariatric surgery in Maryland means you will be able to reduce your food intake by reducing hunger. You may also not be able to absorb nutrients at the level you did before. Therefore, since you have vitamin and mineral deficiencies, you’ll need to supplement this nutrition somehow.

Reach out to Ascension Saint Agnes for information on the best practices when it comes to recovering from your weight loss procedure. It’s time to discover a lighter you.

Snack Time: The Best Protein For Bariatric Patients

Written by Jeff Tormey on April 26, 2023. Posted in Bariatric Surgery.

If you have bariatric surgery in Maryland, then you can lose weight and feel better at the same time. However, this doesn’t mean that you can simply sit around and eat whatever you want. You will need to make some lifestyle changes.

This is particularly true in the first couple months after your gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery. Your digestive system is going to be different and your stomach is going to be healing. So good nutrition is going to be key. One of the keys to this nutritional plan is eating high protein foods for bariatric patients.

Protein and Bariatric Patients 101

Protein has a lot of benefits for your body and weight loss goals. Ideally, you would eat around 60 to 80 grams of protein per day. Now this may be difficult as you will have a much smaller stomach.

Still, this is the target to move towards. So in this article, let’s talk about ways to eat more high protein and the best snacks to ensure you get your daily nutrition.

Protein For Bariatric Patients: The Importance

The first thing to understand is to eat your proteins first in every meal. That’s almost more important than the type of protein that you eat. As long as you prioritize your protein, you won’t be as hungry for other things like carbs or sugar.

So that being said, let’s talk about some specific foods that you can eat that are great for your muscle, immune system, and fat loss. That’s not to mention the positive effect that protein has on your nails and bones and skin.

Protein After Bariatric Surgery That You Should Eat

Eggs

Eggs are one of the most total and complete sources of protein you can eat. They also taste very rich and are very filling. You can use eggs in a salad, you can eat them for breakfast or even mix them into other foods like soups and pastas.

Meat and Poultry

Chicken is an excellent choice for high protein. Consider chicken soup or even grilled chicken. This is one of the best high protein meals for bariatric patients.

Fish

Eating grilled fish is a wonderful way to get a lot of protein. Fish also has omega 3 fatty acids and other natural nutrients that make them nutritious.

Soy Milk And Tofu

|Soy milk and tofu both have proteins in them. You can add these to salads, soups or anything else. They’re also a nice vegetarian or vegan substitute if you prefer not to eat animal products.

Cottage Cheese Or Yogurt

These have probiotics and protein. This is a nice double bonus if you’re looking to get a lot of nutrients in your diet.

Beans, Lentils And Chickpeas

Any type of bean is a great addition to your meal. They have complex carbohydrates which means your body has to work harder to break them down.

Ultimately this boosts your metabolism and makes you store less fat. They also have a good source of protein.

This being said, what are some things that you should avoid?

Foods to Avoid

Let’s touch on some foods to stay away from briefly. (For a full list, go here). You should avoid sugary foods, fatty foods and acidic foods. And stay away from bread, pasta, cake, candy and soda.

If you stick to vegetables, proteins and the occasional fruit, you’ll be able to keep your weight down and help your body heal.

Learn About Bariatric Surgery Today

Consider reaching out to the experts in bariatric surgery in Maryland right now at Ascension St. Agnes. Our expert doctors are waiting to help you with your weight loss surgery.

You can drop the pounds, gain more energy and ultimately feel the same way you did in your early 20s again. All you have to do is click a button or make a quick phone call and you’re on your way.

The Unforeseen Consequences of Smoking Before and After Bariatric Surgery

Written by Jeff Tormey on February 14, 2023. Posted in Bariatric Surgery, Weight Loss Blog.

Bariatric surgery is a significant operation, and patients should take every precaution beforehand to ensure the best possible outcome for their health. For the best recovery and long-term results, you must follow specific tips like wearing comfortable clothes, eating balanced meals for nutrition and exercise, and not smoking.

Smoking before or after bariatric surgery can have many risky consequences. We will explain the risks of smoking before and after bariatric surgery and why it is essential to avoid smoking altogether.

Effects of Smoking: Before and After Weight Loss Surgery

Smoking earlier than and after a bariatric surgical procedure can harm your health. Smoking has been observed to spread problems in bariatric surgery, such as contamination and death.

These include:

1) Wound infections:

If people smoke earlier than and after bariatric surgery, their wounds will be infected. This may extend the time it takes for the affected person to heal from the procedure.

2) Anastomosis problems:

Smoking can significantly reduce blood flow to areas surgically operated on during bariatric surgery. This can increase the risk of anastomosis disruption when surgically created connections between vessels fail to heal correctly.

3) Increased danger of death:

Studies have proven that smoking earlier than and after bariatric surgical treatment will increase the chance of dying due to issues from the procedure. Smoking can limit the effectiveness of the body’s restoration response.

4) Ulcers:

When people who smoke undergo surgery, they produce much less of a substance called prostaglandin E2. This can increase the chance of extreme ulcerations in the belly or intestines. Smoking can additionally lead to delayed restoration of the body’s strength following bariatric procedures.

5) Blood Clots:

Smoking can enlarge the chance of deep venous thrombosis or blood clots in veins. The danger is also expanded when an affected person smokes before and after bariatric surgery.

One solution to decrease these dangers is to cease smoking completely earlier than the process of bariatric surgery. Quitting smoking will enhance standard fitness and the effectiveness of any bariatric procedure.

Additionally, people must comply with all post-operative directions their health practitioner offers to promote healing and decrease the hazard of complications. It is necessary to be aware that quitting smoking is a first-class way to ensure suitable fitness following bariatric surgery.

Tips To Quit Smoking Before and After Bariatric Surgery

If you’re thinking about bariatric surgery, it is critical to cease smoking. Cigarette smoke carries poisonous materials that enter your bloodstream and can intervene with recovery after surgery. Furthermore, smoking earlier than and after the technique will increase post-surgery issues such as an infection in the surgical wound, blood clots, and more.

Quitting smoking is no longer accessible. However, you can take steps to make the method easier. Here are some hints to assist you in stopping smoking earlier than and after bariatric surgery:

1. Make a plan:

Before quitting, devise a method for your lifestyle. This can encompass goals, warding off triggers, and discovering help from friends or households to help you control.

2. Take advantage of resources:

A range of free sources is accessible to assist you in stopping smoking. These encompass nicotine patches and gum, guide organizations to talk about your progress, and even apps that handle day-by-day cravings.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for the best bariatric surgery in Baltimore. We perform a range of surgeries, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band procedures.

Gastric Sleeve vs. Lap-Band Surgery

Written by Jeff Tormey on December 14, 2022. Posted in Bariatric Surgery, Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

Obesity and excess weight can affect one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Bariatric surgery effectively reduces weight, but deciding between the two most common forms – gastric sleeve vs. Lap-Band surgery – requires careful consideration.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy) is a type of bariatric surgery that reduces the size of the stomach and restricts the amount of food you can consume. This procedure removes more than half of a patient’s stomach, leaving behind a narrow sleeve-like structure. Post-op diet and nutrition plans are typically lower-calorie and nutrient-rich, helping to reduce hunger cravings.

In comparison, Lap-Band surgery involves placing a band around the top of the stomach. This creates a small pouch that is separated from the rest of the stomach. The band helps control how much food can be eaten and absorbed by regulating the opening size between the pouch and the lower part of the stomach.

We will explain each of these surgeries in more detail and the associated advantages and disadvantages.

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery or sleeve gastrectomy, or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), is a procedure in which the stomach is partially removed and re-shaped into a narrow tube. This bariatric procedure reduces the size of the stomach to about 15% of its original size. Gastric sleeve surgery removes a part of the stomach, which helps the patient feel full sooner and eat less. After the surgery, patients must follow a strict diet and exercise routine to ensure successful weight loss.

Benefits of Choosing Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is a good choice for those looking to lose weight and maintain long-term weight loss. It has the following benefits:

• Low complication rate — Gastric sleeve surgery carries a low risk of complications, making it an appealing option for many patients.

• Reduced appetite — The reduced size of the stomach limits how much food a patient can eat, leading to fewer cravings.

• No foreign objects — Unlike with Lap-Band surgery, no foreign objects are placed in the body with gastric sleeve surgery.

• Long-term success — Gastric sleeve surgery successfully provides long-term weight loss.

What Is Lap-Band Surgery?

Lap-band surgery, also known as gastric banding or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), is a procedure in which an adjustable silicone band is placed around the top of the stomach to create a small pouch. This pouch restricts the amount of food consumed, leading to weight loss. The band also slows down digestion, allowing patients to feel full longer.

Benefits of Choosing Lap-Band Surgery

Lap-band surgery is a good choice for those looking to lose weight and maintain long-term weight loss. It has the following benefits:

– Lap-band surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the stomach’s top, making it easier to eat less and feel fuller faster.

– The lap band can be adjusted over time, allowing for gradual weight loss rather than drastic changes at once. This helps reduce the chance of long-term weight gain and improves overall success.

– Lap-band surgery is reversible, allowing you to return to your original weight if desired. It also has fewer risks than other weight loss surgeries, such as gastric bypass.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes for the best gastric sleeve surgery in Maryland. Our team of world-class bariatrics surgeon in Maryland provides a comprehensive guide to gastric sleeve versus lap-band surgery.

Essential Tips For Bariatric Surgery Recovery

Written by Jeff Tormey on November 9, 2022. Posted in Bariatric Surgery.

Weight loss surgeries are on the rise, and with any medical procedure, there is a certain amount of recovery time – long or short – that needs to be taken into account. Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for those struggling with weight issues, but it does require proper care during the healing process. Here are some essential tips for getting through bariatric surgery recovery quickly and comfortably:

We will discuss some essential tips for recovering from bariatric surgery quickly and comfortably.

1) Comfortable Clothing

Bariatric surgeries involve a large incision, which may be sore for weeks afterward. Wear comfortable clothes that don’t irritate or rub against your wound site. Choose loose-fitting garments that won’t chafe.

Some of the best materials include:

Soft cotton
Bamboo
Modal

2) Stay Hydrated

When recovering from bariatric surgery, it’s important to stay adequately hydrated. After the procedure, you may need to be on an all-liquid diet for a few weeks. This means avoiding anything that contains fat or fiber and sticking with nutritious drinks — like low-fat milk, protein shakes, and electrolyte drinks. Keeping your body hydrated with liquids can help reduce your risk of constipation, nausea, and other digestive issues.

3) Avoid Overdoing It

When recovering from bariatric surgery, it’s essential to listen to your body and not overexert yourself. Try to limit physical activity during the first few weeks after surgery and avoid any strenuous activities until your doctor says it’s okay. If you feel tired, take a break and rest.

Some of the best exercises include walking, swimming, yoga, and light strength training.

4) Invest in Supportive Pillows and Cushions

After bariatric surgery, you’ll need support to help position your body correctly while sitting and lying down. Investing in supportive pillows can help provide relief as well as reduce the risk of developing complications from poor posture or pressure sores. Look for a comfortable pillow that provides adequate support to your body, including neck, knee, and back cushions.

5) Properly Manage Pain and Discomfort

Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor to manage pain and discomfort after bariatric surgery is essential. This can help you heal more quickly and get back to normal activities sooner. Additionally, it may be helpful to use a heating pad, ice pack, or topical cream to help manage pain and discomfort. Be sure to ask your doctor about any over-the-counter medicines that may be safe for you.

6) Wound Care and Hygiene

Bariatric surgeries like gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, lap band, and duodenal switch surgeries involve incisions of varying sizes. It is essential to keep these wounds clean and covered to avoid infection. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding wound care closely to promote a quick recovery.

Some tips include:

a) Change your dressings regularly, as instructed.

b) Keep your wound area clean and dry.

c) Avoid soaking the incision site in the water while bathing or swimming.

d) Start showering instead of taking baths to avoid getting the stitches wet.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for the best weight loss surgery in Maryland. Our experienced bariatric surgeon and team will help you along your weight loss journey. We offer personalized care and full weight loss services to guide you to life-long healthy habits.

Understanding Dumping syndrome after Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Written by Jeff Tormey on October 24, 2022. Posted in Bariatric Surgery, Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight loss surgery that removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a small “sleeve” or “tube.” This smaller stomach can hold less food, making people feel full more quickly. Some benefits of this weight loss surgery include improved blood sugar control and resolution of sleep apnea. One of the potential side effects of gastric sleeve surgery is “dumping syndrome.” Dumping syndrome is a condition where food “dumps” from the stomach into the small intestine too quickly. This can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sweating. Read on to understand dumping syndrome, its causes, and how to manage it.

What Is Dumping Syndrome?

One of the common reasons for weight gain after a sleeve gastrectomy is Dumping Syndrome. It happens when the food you eat, especially sugary food, moves too quickly from your stomach into the small intestine without being properly digested. Read more: What Causes Weight Gain After Gastric Sleeve Surgery? Certain high-sugar foods like candy, cookies, cake, and soda can cause dumping syndrome. This is because they cause the contents of your stomach to empty too quickly into your small intestine. When this happens, you may feel nauseous and lightheaded and develop diarrhea. Dumping syndrome can be caused by eating large meals or drinking alcohol. There are different stages of dumping syndrome. In the early stage, which usually happens 10-30 minutes after eating, you may feel nauseous and lightheaded. You may also develop diarrhea, cramping, and bloating. (Tramadol) In the late stage, which usually happens 1-3 hours after eating, you may feel tired and weak. You may also develop a rapid heart rate, sweating, and diarrhea.

Tips to Avoid Or Manage Dumping Syndrome After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

1) Avoid Sugary and High-Carb Foods

It is best to avoid sugary and high-carb foods, especially if you are prone to dumping syndrome. These foods include candy, cookies, cake, bread, white rice, and foods made with white flour. Eating these foods can cause blood sugar to spike, triggering dumping syndrome.

2) Eat Smaller Meals

Eating smaller meals more often can help you avoid dumping syndrome. Eating 5-6 small meals daily is best instead of 3 large meals. A meal should be about the size of your fist.

3) Consume More Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits like bananas and melons can help to regulate blood sugar levels and are also easy on the stomach. Incorporate them into your diet slowly to see how your body reacts. Vegetables are high in fiber and nutrients, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. Introduce them into your diet slowly as well.

4) Drink Plenty of Water

Dehydration can worsen dumping syndrome, so drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. You may need even more if you’re sweating a lot or have diarrhea. Your doctor may recommend drinking drinks like Gatorade or Powerade to replace electrolytes. For bariatric sleeve surgery in Maryland, contact Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital Bariatric Surgery. We offer comprehensive care and support for patients before, during, and after surgery. Our experts will work with you to develop a plan that fits your unique needs.

Which Exercises Prevent Hiatal Hernias?

Written by web_developers on December 23, 2021. Posted in Bariatric Surgery, Hernia Surgery.

You may not have heard of a hiatal hernia before. If so, you’re not alone! It is a condition that can develop in anyone, but it is more likely after an abdominal surgery, such as gastric sleeve or bypass.

In this article, we will talk about what it is and how to prevent it from occurring or worsening. We will also discuss the most effective exercises for preventing a hiatal hernia from forming, as well as any special steps you can take to reduce your risk.

What Is a Hiatal Hernia?

It is a condition in which the stomach bulges up through the diaphragm and into the chest. The diaphragm is a muscle located between your chest and abdomen that helps you breathe. Normally, the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach) goes through an opening in the diaphragm. If you have a hiatal hernia, part of your stomach may protrude up through this opening.

This can cause several problems, such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and even asthma. In some cases, it can also lead to serious health complications.

How Is Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?

There are several ways to determine if you have a hiatal hernia. One of the most common methods is to take an X-ray, which should be able to clearly show if your stomach has moved up through your diaphragm. However, there are other symptoms that might indicate it as well! These include:

Chest pain or discomfort, especially after eating
Heartburn accompanied by hoarseness and shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing solid foods
Feeling like food isn’t fully digested due to regurgitation (when contents from the esophagus come back into the mouth)
Asthma attacks caused by heartburn.

If you experience any of these issues on a regular basis, make sure to tell your doctor so they can determine if you have a hiatal hernia.

Exercises to Prevent Hiatal Hernias

Hernia-proofing your core muscles by strengthening them is key to preventing this type of hernia, even if it’s genetic. A strong ab musculature will protect against small tears in the diaphragm, which lead to large problems down the line!

Core stability exercises such as planks and side planks & bridges strengthen not only your abs but also all four sides of your torso. Flexibility training for these muscle groups improves functionality, including daily activities like walking upstairs or getting out of bed. Aerobic activity strengthens heart function, which pumps oxygenated blood around our body. When our body is functioning better, we feel better!

Are you interested in more direct guidance on health after surgery? Contact MD Bariatrics. We know all about safe exercises for hiatal hernia and also offer hernia repair in Baltimore.

Read about diet after hernia surgery.

Is It Possible to Get Gastric Sleeve Twice?

Written by web_developers on December 15, 2021. Posted in Bariatric Surgery, Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

Sometimes, bariatric surgery doesn’t go quite as planned the first time around. Maybe there are complications, or perhaps the level of weight loss achieved just doesn’t meet expectations. No matter the reason, plenty of people find themselves wondering, can I get gastric sleeve surgery twice? Allow us to explain.

Can You Have the Gastric Sleeve Twice?

Technically speaking, the answer is no. It’s not possible to have two separate gastric sleeve surgeries. However, there is a similar procedure called gastric sleeve revision surgery that can help you achieve many of the same results as another gastric sleeve surgery would. So what’s the difference?

Gastric Sleeve Revision vs. Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve revision surgery is a procedure that is performed to correct or improve the results of a previous gastric sleeve surgery. This might be necessary if there are complications after the first surgery, if the patient doesn’t lose enough weight, or if they experience other problems.

In contrast, gastric sleeve surgery is a procedure that is performed to help people achieve significant weight loss. This surgery involves removing part of the stomach so that it can no longer hold as much food. The smaller stomach size restricts how much food a person can eat, which leads to weight loss over time. You cannot remove 80% of the stomach twice. Therefore, you cannot get the gastric sleeve twice.

Gastric Sleeve Conversion to Gastric Bypass

There is another procedure that is sometimes performed instead of gastric sleeve revision surgery called gastric bypass conversion. With this surgery, the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a large lower pouch. The food goes into the small upper pouch, which restricts how much food can be eaten at one time. Then, the food passes from the small upper pouch directly to the large lower pouch, bypassing most of the stomach. This procedure helps people lose weight because they are limited in how much they can eat as well as by how quickly the food moves through their digestive system.

So Which Is Right for Me?

If you’re not entirely happy with your results from a previous gastric sleeve surgery, then gastric sleeve revision surgery may be right for you. This procedure can help correct any problems that you experienced after your first surgery and help you lose more weight. However, if you’re looking to achieve significant weight loss, a revision to gastric bypass might be better.

To discuss your options regarding gastric sleeve surgery in Baltimore, contact MD Bariatrics.

Want more info now? Read about the advantages of gastric sleeve surgery.

The Connection Between Gluten Intolerance and Acid Reflux

Written by Jeff Tormey on November 16, 2021. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on The Connection Between Gluten Intolerance and Acid Reflux

It’s no secret that acid reflux is a common disorder, but did you know it’s often caused by gluten intolerance? It’s true! Acid reflux sufferers are more likely to have celiac disease or be gluten-sensitive. (www.surefire.com)

Can gluten cause acid reflux? While that is still being investigated, there is some type of link present. If acid reflux is something you struggle with on a regular basis, read this blog post for some valuable information. We’ll discuss the link between acid reflux and gluten intolerance, as well as tips for managing acid reflux naturally.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when acid from your stomach backs up into your esophagus. This can cause discomfort, burning sensations, and even bleeding in the esophagus. The most common symptoms of acid reflux include:

Heartburn or indigestion after eating
Feeling like food is getting stuck in your throat
Acid spitting up into the back of your mouth and throat

What Is Gluten Intolerance?

Gluten intolerance is a digestive disorder that occurs when your body reacts poorly to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat and other grains. Gluten intolerance is different from celiac disease in that it doesn’t damage the intestines. However, people who are gluten intolerant often find acid reflux to be an ongoing problem.

The Link Between Gluten Intolerance and Acid Reflux

The symptoms of acid reflux are often seen alongside symptoms of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity (another term for gluten intolerance). Some acid reflux sufferers find that once they remove gluten from their diets, acid reflux symptoms begin to fade away. If you’re experiencing acid reflux and wondering if it could be related to your diet, consider eliminating gluten for a few weeks. You might just notice an improvement in the way you feel!

How Can You Manage Acid Reflux?

If acid reflux is something you struggle with on a regular basis, it’s important to manage the condition naturally. Fortunately, there are several all-natural ways to address acid reflux symptoms and find relief! Some natural remedies for acid reflux include:

Consuming ginger or peppermint
Eating smaller meals throughout the day
Staying hydrated and avoiding trigger foods

Natural acid reflux remedies can help you fight acid reflux symptoms without having to resort to medications or surgery. If acid reflux is something that affects your quality of life on a regular basis, please contact the team at MD Bariatrics. We offer GERD reflux treatment in Baltimore. For more on conditions that can lead to acid reflux, read: Anxiety and Acid Reflux.

Anxiety and Acid Reflux: Understanding the Connection

Written by Jeff Tormey on October 19, 2021. Posted in Bariatric Surgery. No Comments on Anxiety and Acid Reflux: Understanding the Connection

If you suffer from anxiety, there’s a good chance that you also experience acid reflux. But how exactly are GERD and anxiety linked? Today, we’ll take a look at how anxiety and heartburn go together.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is the feeling of discomfort or pain in your chest caused by stomach acid coming up into your esophagus and irritating it. It can be brought on by certain foods such as spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol; medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen) and insulin; conditions, such as being overweight or obese; pregnancy; lying down after eating; and an unhealthy diet low in fiber and high in fat and sugar content.

The Link Between Anxiety and Acid Reflux

Can anxiety cause acid reflux? While it doesn’t always, it can. Anxiety and reflux can be related because anxiety causes problems with the body’s relaxation response; it is a physical reaction to stress. When we are stressed, our bodies release cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine). These two hormones make us alert and ready for action: fight or flight mode. While this was an important survival tool in our early days, it is not that helpful today. Our bodies perceive the physical symptoms of anxiety (increased heart rate and blood pressure) as dangerous like “fight or flight.” To protect our stomachs from damage, we subconsciously inhibit them by contracting muscles in our esophagus during times of stress; this can lead to acid reflux symptoms. Since anxiety and acid reflux are related, it makes sense that our bodies release cortisol and adrenaline when we get stressed out; this helps us to deal with the stressful situation at hand by either fighting or fleeing. However, because of these physical reactions (increased heart rate and blood pressure), they can lead to stomach damage if we inhibit our stomach muscles. Basically, our bodies are not able to tell the difference between anxiety and a dangerous physical situation, which can cause acid reflux symptoms.

Is There a Connection Between Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Surgery?

Anxiety and gastrointestinal surgery in Baltimore can be related because surgery, even when it goes perfectly, carries stress. Stress releases cortisol and adrenaline as mentioned above. In addition, surgeries that specifically involve the gastrointestinal tract can result in various side effects, including those that impact stomach acid. Are you interested in learning more about how these conditions interact or treatment for GERD reflux in Baltimore? Schedule a consultation with MD Bariatrics. Want to learn more about gastrointestinal procedures? Read up on diet after hernia surgery and tips to prepare for an upper endoscopy.