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Pain in upper rib cage

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Posted 8/20/2016 3:50 AM (GMT 0)
Hey all,

So I had a new kind of pain today. It was in my upper ribs, left side, closer to under my arm. It came and went a few times over the span of about 2 minutes. Since then it's happen a couple more times, only lasts a second. Of course when this pain came I couldn't focus on work or anyone talking to me, just focused on the pain, even though it wasn't severe. A little after this first happened I started feeling nauseous. Background on me: 30 year old male, been to a cardiologist, did every test imaginable, last follow up was last month and doc said I am at zero risk, no cardiac issues. I do see a therapist for anxiety who has diagnosed me with GAD.
Does this sound familiar to anyone??? Is this just gas? Could my heart condition have changed in just the short time since I took the tests and showed I was fine to now? I did have a large lunch (pasta, red sauce, shrimp and a large piece of cheesecake). Also could the nausea just be from the anxiety and getting worked up?

about to take a Xanax to calm down, just waiting a while since I had a tums not too long ago.

Thanks
Posted 8/20/2016 3:54 AM (GMT 0)
Yea I get that pain to sometimes under my rib cage or under the left breast. If dr gave you all clear then your good. I'm sure it was gas or just normal pains and aches that come and go. Welcome to the forum!!
Posted 8/20/2016 4:08 AM (GMT 0)
It's just odd because I've never felt it before and lords knows gas is nothing new to me! The pain is more on the side a few inches below my armpit than in the front of the chest. Thanks!
Posted 8/20/2016 4:18 AM (GMT 0)
M&G,

Sorry you are experiencing this worry right now. It is common with anxiety to get alarmed at the normal twinges and often unexplainable feelings we get from time to time. Everyone experiences these things...but those of us with an anxiety issue just take it to the next level in terms of worrying about it.;)

It is likely something that will just pass...and the use of your benzo and some coping skills will help your fears to not escalate.

You'll find great self help material in the Resources at the top of the main forum page here. The health anxiety links will be especially helpful if you tend to worry about these sorts of things often. The Stress Relieving Exercises, Positive/Affirmations and Mantra links...as well as the Meditation Videos are also excellent!

You will be alright. Finding ways to best manage your anxiety is a worth while long term goal...so keep looking for your best recovery...

...and post with us anytime for support!

S.C.
Posted 8/20/2016 7:05 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Yes I get pain in the ribs area a lot and it tend to be worse when my anxiety/stress levels are high and is known to be a symptom of anxiety/stress.

Do all you can to lower your anxiety and you should see an improvement.

Hibee
Posted 8/20/2016 3:09 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks guys. All of this is new to me. I've always been anxious but this last year has been crazy, out of nowhere. Does anyone else become nauseous with their anxiety? I also am noticing I'm getting shortness of breath when I talk sometimes.
Posted 8/20/2016 5:07 PM (GMT 0)
Yep...both pretty classic symptoms!

I think you'll see some dramatic improvement if you commit to practicing self help skills daily...

...or if you find you need more help...making an appointment with your doctor will be a good step towards coming up with a management plan.

Keep posting with us as well for support. We understand, care and are here to listen anytime!

Scaredy Cat
Posted 8/20/2016 7:56 PM (GMT 0)
Yes, I have been seeing a therapist, but of course the hypochondriac in me sometimes doesn't want to listen to her haha. Thank you all. It really helps to have this outlet and support from everyone. I normally am not good with opening up, even my closest friends do not know about all of this. So this feels good.
I have been trying the mantras as well, they help sometimes. Just such a weird time in life for all of this to start happening . I have a great job that I love, make great money, young, single. But I just feel like a ticking time bomb just waiting for the day I turn over and die. I think it's because I am a lot more aware now to symptoms of serious diseases since I like look everything up for any ache or pain I get. Before I was oblivious so just never thought about it.
Posted 8/20/2016 8:32 PM (GMT 0)
We totally 'get it'...so stick around! :)

The support and understanding I've received here has had a huge impact on my anxiety recovery/maintenance! :)

Keep up the good work and have faith that things can and will get better.

Talk soon,

S.C.
Posted 8/23/2016 1:38 AM (GMT 0)
Hi dear
I also had that pain the first time I had enxiety attack. I went to cardiologist but all was OK so I just switched off from it and it went away.
Also change your diet..eat healthier and a bit less.. So u also don't have to take tumz..I'm still on 0.25 Alzam twive a day because i changed my diet completely..reflux is gone..i took omeprazole 20 mg for 3 months non stop. .I feel so much beta when I feel anxious I do coping skills. You will be fine dont panic..
All the best hey ..
Posted 8/25/2016 1:40 PM (GMT 0)
Mike,

Frankie says relax. If you're unfamiliar, it's a horrible song from maybe the 80s. haha!

After that big meal, it could just be gas. You could try an antacid after eating a bunch or get an over the counter PPI and take it 30 minutes before your meal. However, I am not a doctor. We don't want to put medications in our body that we don't have to, but it's something to consider.

I have REALLY painful esophageal spasms in my chest that mimics something much worse and I have learned to just let them pass as I know my heart isn't the problem.

Peace to you.

-smooth
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