How can I get rid of anxiety?

Question

Hi doctor,

Recently I experienced a choking episode which made me revert to my dysphagia. I have severe health anxiety, and I have dysphagia. Last year it resulted in me losing a lot of weight in two months. I was hospitalized for a week, where they did an endoscopy, barium swallow, and manometry. All results showed acid reflux. And anxiety is the cause. Please help me. I do not want to go back to losing loads of weight. It feels like my throat is tight, which is a common sign of anxiety. Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

The following things might help you with your anxiety, keep a diary; write down your thoughts, fears, joys, what triggers your anxiety, etc. It will help you understand your thoughts and find solutions or reduce how you react to them. Also it will help you vent out. Do some physical activity daily, be it a brisk walk, exercise, swimming, or dancing. Also, deep breathing exercises for four to five minutes three times a day will help you calm down. Listen to music. If the above methods do not help your symptoms, you may need to visit a psychiatrist face-to-face for counseling, detailed evaluation, and treatment.

Please follow up for further assistance. Thank you