Stress can lead to which of the following gastrointestinal issues?

Stress can indeed lead to stomachaches as it directly impacts the gastrointestinal system. When an individual experiences stress, the body activates the fight-or-flight response, which can disrupt normal digestive functions. This disruption may manifest in various ways, including stomachaches, cramps, or other gastrointestinal discomforts.

The gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to stress; stress hormones can alter the gut environment, potentially leading to inflammation, changes in gut bacteria, and interference with the functioning of the digestive system. Symptoms such as stomachaches often arise during or after stressful situations due to these physiological changes.

In contrast, while high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart attacks are serious health issues that can be influenced by chronic stress over time, they do not arise directly in the same immediate manner as gastrointestinal discomfort. These conditions are typically associated with long-term stress effects rather than acute stress responses that cause immediate symptoms like stomachaches.