I'm freaking out

[kidd70]

I'm totally freaking out because I'm not sure if I'm having a panic attack or I have food poisoning both symptoms are basically the same and I'm awake trying to figure out which one I have,can someone please help me

[Hidden]

If you have food poisoning, you'll be vomiting profusely and likely suffering from diarrhea. While anxiety can cause these symptoms, the vomiting would be much worse if it's food poisoning. Anxiety, in my specific case, might cause an upset stomach, bloating, unease, and the bowel issues. While the symptoms are similar, if you are vomiting, sweating, and/or have a fever, I would go ahead and get to a care facility. Even if you have the slightest doubt, it might help to get some IV fluids.

[kidd70 in reply to Hidden]

I do have diarrhea and a low fever but I also think that my anxiety kicks in and also makes it more intense,so it feels like I'm having a hard time separating my anxiety and their possibility that I have food poisoning

[Hidden in reply to kidd70]

What kind of food do you suspect of giving you poisoning? Without the vomiting, I might think this could be worthy of rest, hydration (as you can hold down), chicken noodle soup (when your stomach can handle), and things to settle your stomach like Pepto. It could also be one of those "24 hour" bugs which are super annoying. For the anxiety, try deep breathing methods (or smaller breaths if it feels uncomfy) or a mindfulness audio session via YouTube or an app like 10% Happier. Just calming down while you're experiencing both might help you to figure which is which. If your fever goes up and you begin to feel worse (especially with a lot of vomiting), go to a hospital. If things stay where they're at, I would just keep the hospital option on standby. The anxiety can definitely make everything feel exacerbated and add to the situation. If you have a short acting med (like Xanax or Klonopin...etc), this might be a good time to use it so you can relax the anxiety and possibly get some rest. If not, you can try to remove the anxious energy by scrunching your face up for a few seconds and releasing (for each of these, notice the feeling of anxiety slowly letting up) three times, then raise your shoulders up towards your ears (as you can), notice your back and stretch out any areas of tension, then follow my squeezing each of your hands into a fist, and finally end with your feet by curling your toes back towards your heel. This helped me relax a lot and the anxiety took off for a bit. Just some suggestions, I know a lot of this is easier said than done. I hope you feel better...and remember to take care. If you need to head to a doctor for help, absolutely go for it.

[kidd70 in reply to Hidden]

It just sucks that it's hard for me to separate it,plus I dont take any kind of prescription medication for my anxiety by choice