Im really sorry . I know the intrusive thoughts can be overwhelming and scary. They are so hard to get rid of and the more you try to fight them the stronger they get. I too get stuck in bad loops sometimes. Like you said its not likely it is probably something minor and its triggered your anxiety. This happens to me too your doing well though writing it out and challenging your negative thoughts . Sending you my thoughts and positive energy

It can always be so overwhelming. And as Emeraldo said it can be the smallest thing that can be a trigger.

I think you are doing the right thing by putting it on the page.

I so wish I could read it much better..... but there are ads over your posts. Grrrrrl.

xoxo

I'm sorry your anxiety is so high today.

Have you looked into fixing your acid reflux? Such as diet, sleep position, timing of meals, avoiding certain foods, etc.

Have you talked with your doctor about it, asked what they want you to do about it?

Many millions of people have acid reflux. I know about 5 people right now that have it regularly. I just have not heard of it commonly causing cancer. Did your colleague have acid reflux before his cancer diagnosis? I know me saying that it is not likely to happen to you won't help much, but I think if you researched it and tried to avoid the things that cause the reflux, you will hopefully feel a bit less anxious and not think about it as much.

I do believe you are going to be okay. Acid reflux really is a common thing. But it is also pretty easy to treat. I hope you will look into treating it.

I have the same thing. Acid reflux and health anxiety. Heart attacks or stroke. I’m a 43 year old male. I would like to recommend a podcast called the anxiety coaches podcast with Gina Ryan. I have found it extremely helpful. In terms of taking a sedative, I say go for it. Being in an anxious state is like throwing logs on the fire. I take them without shame. It’s not the cure all but in today’s world there is no reason to suffer in such discomfort. Feel free to pm me if you ever would like to chat.

The thing with acid reflux, is learning to relax the tensed muscles naturally, keep your stomach acid level within 'normal' range, and to keep your body from slouching while sitting, resting, or moving.

Anxiety is natural. Noticing it means you're aware of the way it is working 'with' and 'for' your well-being. Stop, pause, breathe, and take a step back from the words, feelings, emotions, and thoughts in that moment.

Best wishes as you find your better balance.

I understand about the acid reflux...I'm 57 and have dealt with it from time to time, here more lately because of my anxiety. A couple of thing...have you ever had a colonoscopy? The reason I'm asking is if you get one, you can get an endoscopy at the same time....I just did it back in August and they did both at the same time. Also, one simple thing...try chewing your food more...about 20 times per bite. Helps with the digestion. You can also find some natural supplements to help with digestion. Also...on the endoscopy, they can do a biopsy of your stomach to see if you have any issues going on there....just some suggestions....I just am in the midst of a gut cleanse and I'm dealing with some things like this as well. Be careful about what you are putting in your body!
Have a blessed day!

Thank you, everyone. I am taking a course of Nexium to try to knock back the reflux. I may have a tight chest muscle which is feeling like continued acid since a heating pad helps, but when the anxiety ramps up, I’m convinced it’s acid. Logically, cancer is a fairly low risk, it just seems more prevalent to me because I can count 3 friends who have died or are dying of cancer and have young kids. Plus another acquaintance who recently died of other causes leaving her 4 young daughters behind. I single parent, so the leaving kids behind part is the hardest to handle.