Hypochondria Support Group
Hypochondria refers to excessive worry about having a serious illness. Hypochondria is often characterized by fears that minor bodily symptoms may indicate a serious illness, constant self-examination and self-diagnosis, and a preoccupation with one's body. Many individuals with hypochondriasis express doubt and disbelief in the doctors' diagnosis.
Hi everyone. I have been having chest pains that are worse when I eat. I also have a hiatal hernia and an eye Nevis, I am so scared I'm having a heart attack when I am pretty sure it's hiatal hernia. Then I get scared my eye has become cancer is spreading to my esophagus. How do I stop worrying. I don't know what to do and I know the worrying is just making it worse,
I am also a hypochondriac and have severe anxiety / panic.
Take it from someone who has been dealing with this a long time - you are okay!! I’ve had this scare a THOUSAND times. Hernia can cause increased anxiety / heart burn. It’s GERD and often goes with anxiety. I get chest pains constantly with mine and over 10 years it has never been a heart attack. Acid reflux / hiatal hernia is no big deal and can easily be remedied so don’t worry! Try some tums first when you are feeling the chest pain / nervousness and then if that doesn’t work talk to your doctor about trying something like Prilosec or another acid reducer - you can get over the counter but I always think it’s good for us anxious folk to speak to doctors first to clear everything with them and avoid another anxiety attack :) drink plenty of water, watch eating too late, and watch acidic foods like garlic and tomato (especially for dinner). Greasy oily stuff as well. Prop yourself up for bed on a couple of pillows. This will all help that pesky acid reflux / hiatal hernia. Chiropractic care may also be able to help. My Chiro opened up my diaphragm muscle through an adjustment which really helped my hernia. Still there but it was helpful.
As for the eye thing I am unfamiliar with that but I would say take a visit to your optometrist and get it cleared. Tell them about your anxiety and your fear with cancer spreading to your esophagus - they will put your mind at ease :)
If you ever need quick assistance call an advice nurse. Explain your fear and let them guide you - more than likely it is the anxiety monster striking again and you have to tell yourself that. It’s tough and takes time but you can do it!