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some anxiety issues or being a hypochondriac?

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Hi for the past two years i have been experiencing some anxiety issues. I have also read up on being a hypochondriac and was wondering if any of my symptoms match up. I constantly check the internet for answers to the slightest thing that happens to my body- say if it is a stabbing pain in my chest that lasts for a second to an ache in the stomach etc
And i also find it very hard to breath when i get worked up, even thinking about finding it hard to breath makes it worse!!
I find that i first got my anxiety when i was younger (although i didn't know what it was) when i had a bit of an eating disorder. but when i took my mind off it it was gone.
It came back some years later when i had a bit of a problem with a friend and has recently come back again. I also find that if i read up on a disease or illness i automatically think i have it.
I also have Hashimotos Thyroditis and am taking thyroxine (not too sure if that is any help) I am 20 years old also.
Any help appreciated


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replied March 31st, 2011
Mental Conditions Answer A21465
Hi, welcome to the ehealth forum and I am glad to help you.
You seem concerned by the anxiety and overfocus on your health issues.
The individuals with anxiety disorder often exhibit a variety of physical symptoms, including fatigue, fidgeting, headaches, nausea, numbness in hands and feet, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, bouts of difficulty breathing, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, insomnia, hot flashes, and rashes. These symptoms must be consistent and on-going, persisting at least 6 months, for a formal diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) to be introduced. But you didn't mention any such symptoms.
You must consult your psychiatrist to rule out any psychological factors or anxiety disorders as the definitive diagnosis can be ascertained with detailed interview with your psychiatrist only and the same cannot be made online.
Hope this helps. Take care.
Note: This post is not to emphasise final diagnosis as the same cannot be made online and is aimed just to provide medical information and no treatment suggested above be taken without face to face consultation with health care professional.



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replied April 6th, 2011
My doctor already diagnosed me with Anxiety when my dad passed away. I was 13 at the time so I was still young I always have difficulty breathing when I think on something bad for too long- almost feeling as though my tounge is falling down my throat and I ways get migraines so I don't find anything strange about that. When I clam down after being worked up my body usually trembles and I find I am exhausted, it also takes a while for my heart to slow down and resume it's normal pace. I get hot flushes a lot as well when I worry but I didn't think that had anything to do with it. I also sweat a fair but as well until I calm down.
What I really wanted to know was could I be a hypochondriac? I panic at the slightest thing and instantly look up my symptoms on the Internet then get worked up about it without actually seeing the doctor.
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