Symptom/Sensation Question

[ab22]

I hate to be that type of anxiety sufferer that worries about physical symptoms - my therapist would tell me to use extreme caution in even writing about it, because I might start to focus on it! But I would like to see if anyone else has had this kind of experience, just to get some support!

There's this sensation I have sometimes where I have a fluttering feeling in my upper abdomen that "takes my breath away" and makes me feel weak for a little bit (like 3 - 6 seconds), and then my heart rate increases for a time.

I've been dealing with it for a while - since February - and I'm just now getting the hang of describing what it's like. I'll often have a mini version of it that is followed by stomach gurgling and gas (though that happens almost all the time anyway). Sometimes, after a bigger one, I'll have the inevitable panic attack, and then will be dealing with the symptoms of that, which I recognize is another thing altogether.

Because of the location, the "takes my breath away" sensation, and weak feeling aspect of it, I worry (of course) about something heart-related. I started a relationship with a cardiologist earlier this year, and they did discover a moderate aortic valve leak which they are planning to watch with once-a-year echocardiograms. I've also had a two week heart monitor where nothing particularly worrying was found. The doctor doesn't seem to connect this feeling/sensation to the valve leak, but he is the sort of doctor that, now that he knows I have an anxiety disorder, seems to attribute almost everything to that!

I've struggled with how that relationship has developed.

Has anyone experienced anything like this? Is it just likely to be an irritable bowel syndrome manifestation, or something else that I haven't thought of (and of course I get a busy mind with things like this!)?

[Valangel18]

hi ab22. I’ve had the same issue when my anxiety first started. Actually, I still have the fluttering sometimes before I have a panic attack. Im pretty sure it is due to the anxiety. I saw multiple doctors for it, same as you and everything came back normal. It was only when I got on anxiety meds that it slowed down from 6 times a day to only a couple times a week. I hope that helps a little. Good luck and feel better!

[ab22 in reply to Valangel18]

Thanks...that’s at least one data point! It’s always challenging, because I’m so analytical and it’s like I need to know “what happened there??”

[Agora1]

Hi ab22, you may be so analytical but I call myself medically curious lol

I didn't get well until I connected the dots between the mind and the body connection.

It's something how the mind is powerful enough to bring on physical symptoms.

First of all, the anxious person has an over sensitized nervous system, an over active mind and a lot of extra adrenaline to start the fear in motion.

You'd be surprised in how much of our distress is caused from Anxiety.

We could be sitting quietly and BAM an anxious thought, a weird pain or sensation comes about and we go into the depth of anxiety.

I was like you at one time, first it was the focus on my heart and breathing and then it was all about my stomach issues. The minute I would conquer one issue, another one would take it's place. That's how anxiety works in keeping us in it's grip.

Once we learn how to accept Anxiety for what it is...and that is a lie, we can start to heal.

A good book to read or a video to watch on YouTube is by Dr. Claire Weekes' "Hope & Help for Your Nerves" Excellent explanation from a psychiatrist who herself had severe anxiety and how she got over it.

There are many of us on this forum as well as all over the world who believe in that concept that Acceptance and not fear is the "key" in getting better. So my friend, know that you are definitely not alone. Continue being a part of this virtual family as we help each other take the next step. Glad you are here xx

[ab22 in reply to Agora1]

That's been the most bizarre thing...when I think about this year. It's been every system of the body at some point or another. Just moves from one to another, and when I stop focusing on one, another one rears it's head. It's so weird and I wish I understood it better (or maybe I don't!). Thank you...

[Shertur in reply to Agora1]

Hi Agora, I can identify with so much of what you said. I wonder whether the title of Claire Weekes' book is correct as I have one of hers called Self Help for your Nerves. When things have been bad in the past I have called it my "Bible" as she speaks so much sense. Thankfully I'm much better now, although a few weeks ago as I got into bed suddenly, whoosh, a panic attack. No idea what set it off. Eventually got to sleep, but when I woke next morning, another one! Felt very washed out all day, then back to normal. We are strange beings aren't we! Hope you have a good Christmas x

[Agora1 in reply to Shertur]

Shertur, Dr. Weekes book is worded a little different in the UK and US but it is the

same contents. Merry Christmas to you as well xx

[HD1960]

Hello,

Most of the symptoms are anxiety related and I have them. One thing I have started to take is probiotics every day. It’s not going to cure you but it helps with the stomach issues. Gummy types are easy to o chew. I bought the book DARE. Get it and read. Very interesting stuff.

Have a peaceful day.

[ab22 in reply to HD1960]

Took me a couple days to sit down and look up this book. Might be valuable - I've ordered it! I'll try to come back and give a follow up on how it goes once I received it...