Consider duodenal ulcer, for instance. This always occurs in that portion of the duodenum on which acid from the stomach impinges. Disturbance of the nervous system can upset the delicate balance of the nerves of the stomach and so cause more acid to be secreted than necessary. As a result of a constant bombardment of increased acid, the delicate lining of the duodenum may give way and so produce an ulcer. It is significant that all these stress diseases benefit from rest.
Sufficient rest is said to cure a duodenal ulcer no matter what treatment is given.
Certainly this is borne out by the facts. The usual medical treatment is a strict milk diet and rest in bed. Rest in bed and freedom from worry, however, are the things which really bring about the cure. Unfortunately, when the patient has to resume normal life, with its stresses and strains, relapse is very common. It has been said, Once a duodenal ulcer, always a duodenal ulcer.