Discomfort when swallowing (and other symptoms)

[lastoria]

Not sure which forum to go with this, so I'll start here. Here is my medical history and symptoms:

29 y.o. male, history of smoking and drinking but quit smoking two years ago. Still drink about 5-15 units per week.

Recently I have experienced some problems with RSI or Carpal Tunnel (perceived, not diagnosed). I get a numbness in the hands and arms. I'm to see a doctor on this in a few weeks.

About 4 months ago I began to have panic attacks (tight chest, light-headedness, and a couple of full blown attacks). Doctor put me on Zoloft 50mg and that's been under control now for awhile.

Have been a chronic heartburn acid-reflux sufferer until doctor put me on Aciphex 20mg (miracle drug), and now I've been one month heartburn free.

I never usually have headaches, but have had 3-4 in the last two weeks.

The main symptom I am concerned with is a fairly localized pain in my throat. Sometimes when I swallow (especially if I swallow repeatedly) I feel a sort of stiffness on the one side right above the adam's apple on my left side. The pain is usually only when I dry swallow (I eat and drink fine). Also my throat feels good when I wake up in the morning, it's after I get to work that it starts to hurt (computer programmer). My shoulders are also slightly tense but that's normal for me.

I also have tonsil stones which I have been trying to keep cleaned out.

I know this can be anything from throat cancer to a side effect of anxiety or carpal tunnel, but I'd love to hear some opinions and to see where I should go with this. I am somewhat of a hypochondriac, so I want to determine if I'm overreacting or need to seek immediate counsel.

My last check-up indicated slightly high blood pressure in one arm and slightly high liver enzymes (which are to be re-checked at my next appointment)

Thanks!

[lastoria]

I should also mention that I am having a little bit of sinus drainage (I used to get allergies this time of the year). I have no other allergy problems right now, except some extra phlegm coming down from my nose into the back of my mouth.

I also took my own temperature last night and it was dead-on normal.

[Geneva1]

You have several things going on that could cause
trouble swallowing. Tonsil stones, allergies, etc...
You wrote that you have panic attacks. Anxiety can cause difficulty in swallowing. It's called "Globus Hystericus". Perform a search on it, and see if it sounds familar, but it's always best to see your Doctor, so that you don't cause yourself alot of worry.

Hope this has helped!

[Geneva1]

Forgot to mention, look on the "Cancer" thread, or post on that thread. Not that you have cancer, but there are several posts there about throat problems, where you might find more information.

[This message has been edited by Geneva1 (edited 09-11-2003).]

If you quit smoking you can do the same for drinking. It is toxic to the liver. That needs your attention. If you drink because it relaxes you perhaps a different approach would help and reduce anxiety or stress. The lymph nodes are probably just working overtime to keep the drip in check. This is the time of year. I've got pn.drip that could choke a horse , with a sensation of fullness in the neck area that's allergy related in my case . I do some facial massage to improve lymph node function/flow (chiro performed when I had sinusitis) and gargle with salt water, antiseptic mouthwash.
Regarding the numb sensations of the hands and arms; is your work area ergonomically correct? Improper posture can contribute to neck stiffness. Doing so much work at the computer-check your station. Gentle range of motion stretches for the neck may help reduce and prevent the stiffness. If you lean on your elbows enough, that can cause the hand & arm sensations you state. Circulation in the limbs could be affected by improper body mechanics, lack of ergonomics etc. The wrist bar-rest helps me and I changed from a mouse to a rollerball back to a mouse with a center wheel to scroll. I'm sure you have all that and more-a once over couldn’t hurt. Reduce salt intake and fast foods ^ in sodium. Perhaps focus on stress reducer tailored to you is in order. Brisk walks. At work take a few moments in intervals to stand, stretch, stroll even if it is brief could help. I mean a conscious effort! Be Well, G