What digestive issues can stress potentially lead to?

Stress can have a significant impact on the digestive system, leading to various issues due to the complex interplay between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. The correct answer indicates that stress can lead to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Stress is a common trigger for exacerbations of IBS, as it can influence gut motility and increase sensitivity to stimuli in the intestines.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, on the other hand, involves the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Stress can worsen GERD symptoms by causing muscle tension and altering the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents backflow.

Both conditions demonstrate how psychological stressors can manifest in physical symptoms through their effects on digestive function, making option C the most accurate choice for the digestive issues potentially linked to stress.