what’s actually happening, physically, when we get stomach knots during spells of anxiety?

Question

what’s actually happening, physically, when we get stomach knots during spells of anxiety?

In: 15

Answer 1

When we experience spells of anxiety, our body’s “fight or flight” response gets activated, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline. These hormones can affect the muscles in our stomach, causing them to contract and tighten, leading to the sensation of “stomach knots.” Additionally, the decrease in blood flow to the digestive system during this response can also contribute to the discomfort and physical sensations in the stomach area. Essentially, it’s a physical response triggered by our body’s reaction to the emotional stress and anxiety we’re experiencing.

Edit: typo increase/decrease. [Explained here.](https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/15chgt7/eli5_whats_actually_happening_physically_when_we/ju1w1f7/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_content=1&utm_term=1&context=3).