Throat spasms/anxiety or something else?

I wasnt sure where to put this because ive suffered from panic disorder for years but I dont know what this is.

Ive had every symptom from panic in the book and ive suffered from throat tightness and lump in the throat before but this is totally new. It came out of nowhere when I was lying in bed and it was like my throat was in spasm. It would stop after 30 seconds then go again. Stop. Go. etc. and it wouldnt stop. My biggest fear is choking and I instantly had a full blown panic attack and was taken to A&E. As usual, doctors were unhelpful. Patronising even. It continued and I was in a lot of pain so I went home and tried to sleep. Once I got to sleep it seemed to go away.
I had throat tightness/lump in throat since then and I went back to the doctors and the usual patronising, sent me on my way feeling even worse. Everyone was telling me it wouldnt come back. Then last night at work it did and I was terrified. The feeling isnt like what ive read online, i can swallow and breathe, its just this absolutely horrible feeling like somethings stuck and moving up and down my throat. I had to be sent home because the feelings instantly push me over into a panic attack. When it hits its like i cant do anything im so paralized by fear. im a girl who cant swallow tablets and chews her food until its basically liquid because im so afraid of choking and this is driving me insane with worry.

Background info: for over a month now ive been suffering from sinus pain/intense headaches. Pressure around the nose/eyes. No mucus. I also have a history of indigestion problems probably from poor diet/anxiety.

I just want to find someone whose ever felt this. All my googling and nothing... Could it be related to my sinuses? I've been in a lot of pain. Now im scared to go to work or even leave the house incase it happens outside. Im a total mess.

Hi Cbp and welcome.

I am sorry that you are currently going through this.:( It does sond scary.

I have had what has felt like a temporary inability to swallow. Like my throat is just shut tight, and nothing can budge. This however sounds different...like the muscles in your throat are actually contracting involuntarily?

Since this could be something physical in nature, and related to GERD/indigestion, could you request a consult with a gastro doctor? (not going in as an emergency, but asking your regular GP for a referral?)

After ruling out anything structurally problematic in your throat, you can then assume that this is anxiety manifesting itself in another symptom...which is not uncommon.

If that ends up being the case, come on back, check out our Resources here for great self help tips for lessening anxiety...and keep posting with us for support. We are always here to care and understand.:)

Hoping you find your answers soon!

Scaredy Cat