Dry Heaving Makes Anxiety Worse!

[Worrywort626]

Ever since my dad had a stroke last week, my anxiety has been very bad. If I don’t eat because I feel too nervous or upset, then I get queasy and start dry heaving. I have a fear of throwing up so it doesn’t take much for me to loose sleep over this feeling. It’s been so rough. Anyone else experience this? Such a vicious cycle!

[fauxartist]

I'm sorry about your Dad ....it's very hard to see a loved one hurt or sick. But you need to get help also in all of this....are you in therapy.... what help do you have to cope with this?

[Worrywort626 in reply to fauxartist]

I’m a SAHM to two kids (6 and 3) and have very little support. My husband is rarely home due to working so much overtime. It’s just me and the kids and my catastrophic thoughts. I do self care as much as possible but I still spiral.

[morenews]

It is very tough for you now: your Dad had a stroke...of course you feel the way you feel.

Take it easy and do eat, you have to take care of yourself, it is very important ...get help if you can for yourself as well. You would need to be healthier and calmer in order to help your Dad to get better.

I had similar experience when i Mom had a stroke, it was a while ago, but i still remember.

Anxiety was unbearable...i don't know how i survived. But one thing i can tell you for sure: it gets better, mentally you get more used to the situation...It was the worse a few first weeks when it happened with my Mom...one step at a time, and I got better with anxiety. I don't want to tell you that it went away, i was taking medication as well...But it got easier and at least i was able to function, sleep, eat and help my Mom.

Hugs to you!

[Worrywort626 in reply to morenews]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’ve been on medication since I was 11 (33 now). I’m not in therapy at the moment as my last therapist wasn’t reliable. Working on finding a new one I connect with. I use essential oils, get acupuncture, take GABA calm as needed. I should exercise more. I worry I’ll have a stroke one day too like my dad because of all this anxiety that I’m never able to fully get rid of. My dad is 90 years old so it’s not shocking but just very upsetting.

[morenews in reply to Worrywort626]

good luck with your dad, yes 90 is mature age to say at least. And don't think about possible stroke, it only adds to anxiety...you have a long time till 90 at least not to think about it. I was thinking the same thing when it happened to my mom. But as you see i have survived....regardless of anxiety. it is manageable and you are doing a lot of things to help yourself out.

[Hidden]

Hello Worrywort626!

I also have a fear of throwing up and will do anything for that not to happen. If I were you, I would eat small amounts frequently all day long. I would call it “grazing.” Eat whatever appeals to you in small quantities several times/day. It’s much better than not eating at all. I’m really sorry to hear about your Dad. How’s he doing?

[Worrywort626 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for her suggestion. Grazing sounds a lot more doable. Things high in protein, too. He’s actually doing well! The doctor said it was a miracle he survived. Most people his age with that kind of stroke don’t make it. 😔 He’s very fortunate. He was able to leave the hospital after 2 days and is now at a rehabilitation center to get his strength back. He still can’t walk which discourages him but it’s still early. I’m praying he doesn’t have another stroke. Thank you so much for asking. I just love this community. It’s been so helpful during this time.

[Hidden in reply to Worrywort626]

That’s amazing that he’s doing so well! Very encouraging for you! I’m also glad that this community is helping! There are so many caring people here. By the way, eat some fattening things too to hold you over better! In small amounts, you’ll be fine! I work in a post acute care facility with rehab and I know what both of you are going through...hang in there!!