SAR Journal of Medical Case Reports
Volume-7 | Issue-02
Original Research Article
Holistic Management of Chronic Stress and Gastrointestinal Disease in a Primary Care Setting – The Role of Social Support in Caregiver Health: A Case Report
Calaweez Othman
Published : April 28, 2026
Abstract
Background: Chronic caregiver stress is a frequently under-recognised contributor to physical and mental health morbidity. Sustained caregiving imposes significant psychosocial burden that often remains unaddressed within conventional biomedical frameworks. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 57-year-old married woman who has served as the primary caregiver for her adult daughter with cerebral palsy since birth. Over decades of caregiving, she developed multiple chronic gastrointestinal and systemic health problems, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, hiatus hernia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatigue, and generalised musculoskeletal discomfort largely attributed to chronic stress and prolonged self-neglect. Management and Outcome: A holistic, psychosocially informed management plan incorporating pharmacological therapy, dietary counselling, stress management strategies, and connection to community and governmental social support services led to significant and sustained improvements in her gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Conclusion: This case highlights the critical importance of integrating psychosocial assessment and social support into routine primary care practice. Recognition of caregiver burden as a driver of physical illness is essential for delivering comprehensive, patient-centred care.