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Posted 11/9/2018 11:28 PM (GMT 0)
I'd posted a while back about my ongoing 4 month sore throat issue - the sore throat comes on for several days, then disappears for several days, then returns...
I had been to my primary doc several times and then 2 different ENTs, twice each. My primary doc stopped responding to my emails about it so I decided to go back to the ENT today. He did another endoscopy (this time I knew what to expect so although it was extremely uncomfortable and intense for me, I did not panic or dissociate) and found that I have a few small tonsil stones as well as, essentially, a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) on my right tonsil. He said it seems that I have chronic aphthous ulcers and that it's only 1 sore, very small (2 mm), and can be brought on by stress and viral infections. He said he would look into treatment options for it (usually it's treated with steroids, but that is when someone has many enlarged sores) and get back to me.

I feel like I should be relieved by this information.... But I'm not. I'm still worried and anxious.
Why didn't they see this before? What if this isn't the real reason for my sore throat? Why did it take so long to get this information? Can I trust that his diagnosis is correct?

I'm driving myself crazy with all the thoughts and anxiety! I am exhausted by my self.
Posted 11/10/2018 1:08 AM (GMT 0)
Hi searching1. I'm sorry that you are going through this health anxiety because I have had that as well and it really is a terrible thing. My favorite way to stop worrying is to try to distract yourself with something you enjoy to ease your mind. Are you being treated for your anxiety issues with therapy or medication? That may be helpful to get in touch with a psychiatrist if you are not being treated. Try to remember that you cannot diagnose yourself because you don't have the appropriate education and training in that area of expertise. Sometimes we have to humble ourselves and trust in the help of professionals when we aren't feeling good. I wish you the best and hope you feel much better.
Posted 11/10/2018 1:27 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you, Adubb.
Distraction is a good idea. I'll try a few different things and see what I can lose myself in... it's getting chilly, so maybe I should knit a new scarf.
I am seeing a therapist weekly and have tried several different medications for my anxiety but just have not found the right medicine yet.
Posted 11/12/2018 2:20 AM (GMT 0)
Hey Searching,

Ironically, Health Anxiety is not always relieved by the answers we have been looking for all along. That is why getting to the root of the issue is so important...through therapy and self help. So continue to work those programs, or get back on board with them if you've lapsed on your daily practice.

Canker sores are common, and can indeed cause a sore throat! I have had them there and it was miserable. They can also be hard to get under control when you are stressed.

I would recommend watching the acidity in your diet until they have fully healed. If you can avoid coffee, citrus brined/vinegary and other acidic food/drinks that will help.

Wishing you the best in both physical and mental health...it will get better with time and continued coping skills!

S.C.
Posted 11/13/2018 4:18 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you so much, S.C.
It can feel so lonely and scary dealing with all of this anxiety. It really does help me to have everyone here encouraging me and reminding me that I'm not alone.
Posted 11/13/2018 10:13 PM (GMT 0)
Yes, anxiety can feel very isolating...but you are NEVER alone here...post anytime!! smile

S.C.
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