Dealing with Chronic Stomach Issues and Panic Attacks
Content Warning: Discussion of self-harm Greetings, I'm a 27-year-old male, and I’m reaching out in hopes of finding some understanding or guidance. I’ll share quite a bit about my situation, as it’s complex and has left me feeling quite desperate. For the past decade, I have been struggling with persistent discomfort in my abdomen. The sensation isn’t exactly pain, but it manifests as cramps, tingling, and bloating. It primarily occurs below my ribcage on the right and middle areas of my stomach. This feeling intensifies significantly when pressure is applied, becoming more pronounced at times, and often triggers panic attacks. Historically, doctors have dismissed my symptoms as psychogenic, attributing them to anxiety. However, I’ve recently begun to wonder if there might actually be a physical condition at play since I can distinctly pinpoint the area of discomfort and it reacts to pressure. These symptoms seem to correlate with my diet and my stress levels but can also occur unexpectedly. Unfortunately, medications for stomach issues and diazepam have had no effect. Initially, I feel gassy, which transitions into bloating, and eventually culminates in cramps along with a combination of these sensations. This also leads to episodes of vomiting and frequent bowel movements, where the expelled matter resembles a foamy substance—quite unpleasant, to say the least. The intensity of these feelings is so overwhelming that it often results in anxiety attacks. In my attempts to cope, I’ve developed a worrying habit of self-harm, finding that physical pain offers me a temporary distraction from the relentless abdominal discomfort. I’ve harmed my hands, breaking knuckles and fingers from punching walls. This ongoing battle impacts many aspects of my life, both personally and professionally. I’ve become unable to eat outside my own home due to the fear of triggering a panic attack. This has led to instability in my job, as I frequently miss work when the cramps and anxiety strike. Just thinking about food can set it off, leading me to avoid eating or drinking during the day altogether. Although this results in dehydration and fatigue, it spares me from the panic attacks. I recognize that this is a significant amount to share, but I’ve kept this to myself for far too long without finding a constructive way to address it. I welcome any advice or thoughts you may have, and I appreciate you taking the time to read my post. Thank you.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 10:02:17 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience; it sounds truly challenging and distressing. Your symptoms, including the abdominal discomfort and panic attacks, seem to be deeply interconnected. It's commendable that you're seeking support and understanding in addressing these issues.
Main Points:
- Persistent abdominal discomfort and panic attacks may have both physical and psychological components.
- It's crucial to explore dietary and stress-related triggers while implementing immediate self-care strategies.
- Consider alternative coping mechanisms to self-harm for managing anxiety and discomfort.
Explanation
Your symptoms suggest a complex interplay between physical sensations and anxiety. It's possible that conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or even stress-related gastrointestinal issues could be contributing. Given that medical interventions so far have been ineffective, further exploration of your symptoms might be necessary.
Your mention of self-harm raises significant concern. While it may provide temporary relief, it's important to recognize that this isn't a healthy coping mechanism. Finding replacement strategies is essential as you navigate this distress.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your symptoms alongside your food intake, stress levels, and any emotional triggers. This can help identify patterns and potential dietary triggers.
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Dietary Considerations: Pay attention to foods that exacerbate your symptoms, such as high-fat, spicy, or sugary foods. Consider a gradual elimination diet to find what works best for you. Fiber-rich foods, small meals, and avoiding carbonated drinks may help reduce bloating.
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Self-Care Techniques: Incorporate stress-reduction practices like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle yoga. These can help manage anxiety and potentially ease your physical symptoms.
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Professional Support: While self-help strategies are critical, I encourage you to connect with a mental health professional who can provide strategies for coping with anxiety and explore healthier ways to manage distress. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective.
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Hydration: As you're avoiding eating and drinking, make sure to prioritize hydration. Sipping water throughout the day can help alleviate dehydration while avoiding large meals that may trigger discomfort.
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Explore Alternative Treatments: Consider discussing other treatment options with a healthcare provider, such as a nutritionist or gastroenterologist, who may offer alternative remedies or therapies tailored to your experiences.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Seeking support from professionals can significantly improve your quality of life and help you find effective ways to manage both your physical and emotional health. If you need further guidance, please feel free to ask.
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