Could This Be Hourglass Syndrome?
I only recently learned about something called hourglass syndrome. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been in the habit of pulling in my stomach, which has been a part of my life for years. At 21 years of age, weighing 62 kilograms and standing at 162 centimeters tall, I’m uncertain if my method qualifies as hourglass syndrome. However, I feel physically uneasy when I allow my stomach to relax—I don’t do this to achieve a flat abdomen; it’s just a behavior I’ve adopted unconsciously over time. I deal with conditions such as IBS-D and PCOS, along with experiencing mild scoliosis. Additionally, my ribcage is uneven, and I have a rib flare attributed to poor posture. I’m currently on loperamide, birth control, and vitamin D, since my body struggles to produce adequate amounts of it. Taking deep breaths can be challenging for me, but this has been my norm my whole life, so I never thought much about it until I learned that sucking in my stomach might be harmful. Is it worth having this checked by a professional?
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 1:40:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some physical discomfort tied to your habit of pulling in your stomach, alongside managing several health conditions. While what you're describing doesn't clearly indicate classic "hourglass syndrome," it raises important concerns about how this behavior impacts your overall health and comfort, especially given your existing conditions like IBS-D, PCOS, and mild scoliosis.
Explanation
Hourglass syndrome typically refers to a distortion of the torso that can occur from certain postural habits over time. What you're describing might be a form of muscle tension or tightness that you’ve unconsciously developed, which can be related to posture, anxiety, or even digestive discomfort. Sucking in your stomach might lead to reduced diaphragm movement, making deep breathing more challenging, which is likely contributing to your discomfort.
Next Steps
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Begin by incorporating relaxation exercises into your daily routine. Focus on mindful breathing exercises that encourage you to let your stomach relax fully. This could help improve your breathing and reduce discomfort.
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Postural Awareness: Work on your posture. Strengthening your core muscles can help provide stability without the need to brace your stomach all the time. Activities like yoga or pilates may be beneficial.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when you feel discomfort and any associated activities. This can help identify patterns and triggers related to your stomach pulling habit.
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Discuss with a Professional: While self-care and monitoring may suffice initially, it’s still a good idea to consult a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or a doctor specializing in musculoskeletal health. They can provide personalized guidance on posture and muscle function and address any concerns related to your existing conditions.
Taking these steps may help improve your comfort and breathing ability while providing more insight into whether further professional evaluation is necessary. You’re on the right track by being mindful of your body and seeking to understand how to best support it.
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