I there !!!
So I feel the point of this group is to help each other out and to give advice and tips on how to 0vercome things. So I just posted a question and some people told me that I could die and another one said that it can turn into cancer. Like... really ???? I suffer from health anxiety and now I am so worried about getting cancer and die
Hi Tjgg,
I just saw your post about acid reflux. I’m sorry that they responded like that. Acid reflux is pretty common. My niece is 12 years old and has it and her dad is a doctor!! There’s nothing to worry about. It can be due to certain types of food or stress. I get it when I’m stressed and my doctor tells me to take Prilosec (I think). You are going to be just fine. Also, if you get a physical, it helps you to realize that you are healthy and strong.
Be well.
Thanks.... I'm trying to not freak out about it
Just breathe. If it helps, make a dr appt. just trust that your body is stronger than to allow something so common like acid reflux to harm you. Everyone has it at some point!! Our bodies are strong. I had acid reflux yesterday and told myself, “wow it’s amazing how my body reacts to stress”. Once u start seeing patterns, and knowing how your body responds, you will realize that you are just fine.
Hey there. I’ve just read your other post and really, some responses are misinformed and unhelpful!
So, first of all, yes...acid reflux will get worse with anxiety. When we are anxious we produce Adrenalin, which inevitably produces more stomach acid. It’s just an unfortunate side effect of anxiety.
Often a doctor will prescribe you what’s called a treatment dose of a PPI, or a proton pump inhibitor. This type of medication suppresses the production of acid. Antacids treat the symptoms of reflux or heartburn, rather than stop the acid being produced in the first place. You will not stay on a treatment dose for long. It is safe to take a maintenance dose (I.e, less of it) in the long term.
The reason you will read bad things about antacids and PPI’s, is because it’s not the best idea to suppress acid production in the long term. This is because the body needs acid to digest food and keep our gut in working order.
The reason people say that reflux can cause cancer, is a little misleading. In the very long term, constant reflux can in a small number of people, cause a condition called Barrett’s Osophegus. There is a risk of cancer following from that. My stepdad had acid reflux all of his life (and also took meds for it all his life) and never developed either and lived till he was 83.
The most important thing you can do right now is work on your anxiety, which will help with the reflux. Speak to your doctor about treating the symptoms. Other things you can try are peppermint capsules, peppermint tea and sitting with a hot water bottle. Even peppermint sweets can help.
I know you are extremely anxious, honey. I feel your pain, I really do. But don’t google anything. It will only make it worse for you. Please see your doctor - you may just need a short course of antacids or PPI’s. Another reason for reflux is something called Helicobacter (H-Pylori), which is a bacteria overgrowth that needs treatment with antibiotics. The test for that is just a breath test.
If you want to private message me, please do...anytime. Xx
Thanks!!!! I was doing so good with my anxiety. And yes lately I've been very stressed from different reasons. I know it has to do with stress. But you know... now I have to work on relax. Thanks for your explanation !
You’ve been through a lot, honey. And you’re doing better than you think ❤️. I don’t find it easy to relax at all. I also meant to say, it’s a good idea to take a wee food diary and write down anything that makes it worse. At anxious times, some foods make my reflux a lot worse. So you might see a wee pattern and be able to avoid those foods or drinks. Also, don’t eat too late at night and prop yourself up I bed a bit too. Big hugs ❤️
Hi Tjgg. Just remember - none of us are doctors. We are all speaking from personal experience or experience of people we know. While this site should be great for support (sorry for the scares it caused you!) it is not a place or substitute for medical information or advice. Always check with your doctor or medical professional for that.
Also - I'm not trying to discount the validity or helpfulness of personal experience! Especially those who commented today!
Yes! I always try to go to the doctor too. Thanks !
Hi Tjgg just left a reply on your other post, hopefully reassuring you. I agree that telling anyone this could result in health anxiety even if you haven't got it!
I agree with Jen that you are going to be fine. Even if someone got cancer then there are more people cured of it or in remission than who actually peg it from it. So stop worrying so much please. x
I will. Thanks
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