Ep 109 Why your stomach hurts as seen through the eyes of compassionate physicians over 100 years ago? Neurasthenia Gastrica Part 5

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What if the secret to understanding chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome lay tucked within the historical pages of medical literature? Journey alongside us as we unravel the intricate narrative of neurasthenia, a condition that has fascinated medical minds between 90-150 years ago. Our exploration will chart a course through the clinical descriptions, pathophysiological theories, and therapeutic recommendations from the work of pioneers who shed light on the concept of neurasthenia gastrica,

Your curiosity will be piqued as we dissect historical theories of how nerve centers might interact between the brain and gut producing distressful symptoms and deepening our understanding of the human body’s complex nervous systems.

But that's not all. We’ll take this exploration a step further, dissecting gastric neurasthenia and opening up a discussion about available modern treatment options. You'll learn about the condition’s prevalence among soldiers coping with shell shock, now called PTSD, and the intriguing theories surrounding its physical causes. You'll hear about the importance of diet, lifestyle, and the role they play in managing chronic conditions. Whether you're a seasoned medical professional or someone dealing with these conditions, we promise this episode will equip you with a newfound understanding of these complex disorders. You'll leave with the tools and knowledge to foster a healthier future. So, buckle up and get ready for an enlightening journey into the depths of neurasthenia and gut-brain interaction.

Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*