Many thanks for looking at this minor but irritating problem that I have.

This problem that was slight over a year ago has turned into a rather larger problem today.

When I was going out for meals I would find my stomach turning and a strange taste appeared in my mouth, the type that you feel in a morning when you first wake. After eating I feel that I always have to brush my teeth, this then gives me a new lease of life and I feel fine again.

As I wasn't going out a lot I could cope with the problem, but last year I met a girl that I was extremely keen on. Before I met her on an evening I became sick with anxiety and nerves - I was always on edge. I put this down to a mental problem ie maybe she wasn't what I though she was. Lots of other factors probably played a part in the thoughts that I had for her, such as her children, the fact that she used to be married, all things that I wasn't used to.

After trying hypnosis and ending the relationship after 2 months I still find that when I get anxious or have to go out at certain times my stomach sometimes 'turns' and I become sick. - This usually occurs just before I go out.

It is now over 8 months since the relationship was over, and still I sometimes (not always) become sick before I go out.

I have read about increasing the 'good bacteria' in your stomach by eating 'Live yoghurt', I have tried this in the last week and I have noticed some slight difference. I have also taken Charcoal capsules after meals, this also seams to help.

I believe that the problem is both psycological and physical, the physical part being an over active stomach. I don't smoke or drink so these aren't factors that could influence the problem.

If anyone has any advice on this matter I would be very greatful.

Many thanks,
Mark.

Hi Mark. As you're finding out, there is a strong link between the mind and gut. Anxiety can cause many physical symptoms in any one of us, like dry mouth, heart palpitations,churning stomach, etc. Eventually, just a mildly anxious thought can set our bodies into over-drive, or continually worrying about something can cause physical symptoms to become chronic. Many people on this board find relief through couseling, meditaton, etc.; others require prescription medication or homeopathic remedies to calm their stomachs. Hopefully others will respond to your post with good advice.

Katie G

Hi Mark,
It sounds like you are going through what I used to go through. I was diagnosed about 7 years ago with panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder, and what you are discribing, Anticipatory Anxiety. It all started with one episode of anxiety just before going out, and it snowballed after that. I would feel sick to my stomach, and even run a fever. Each time I made a date or apointment somewhere, I would start to feel nervous because I worried this would happen again, and of course it did. The mind is a powerful thing. I did a 10 week course of behaviour modification therapy, which helped slightly, but it wasn't until I started taking medication that the problem resolved itself. The doctor explained that you have to break the cycle. I was put on 20mg of paxil daily, and within a few weeks the problem was solved. I was able to make plans with friends, go on trips, and even get married (I had such a fear of "what if I get sick right before the wedding" that I thought I'd probably have to elope!) I've had a wonderful time since going on the drug, but recently stopped due to the weight gain it caused. And guess what...my problem is back!!! Yesterday right before going out, I began suffering severe stomach cramps, and I spent about a half our in the bathroom. At least this time I know why this is happening, and I'm going to see my doctor about a new drug. All the best to you!