Need help with some questions, a new member

[formyboys]

Hi, I have been struggling with many symptoms of severe anxiety and panic attacks in the last month. The most recent symptom that I am having that is so troublesome is the clenching of my throat. Does anyone have this? And how do you deal with it....I would love any comments as this gets me spinning into an anxiety fit. Thank you so much.

[Guest]

What you are actually experiencing is symptoms of tight muscles. Your throat is not clenching nor is it tightening and if you feel a "lump" feeling when you swallow it is actually only a sensation from the tight muscles. You can swallow just the same. This is a very classic symptom of anxiety and the more you resist it the more uncomfortable you become. However, it is harmless.

Practice relaxation techniques. Breathe into the tension very slowly. Use a relaxation tape daily and actively follow the instructions, such as Lucinda's relaxation cd. The more you learn to relax your body the sooner your throat will get the message to relax as well.

Also, don't make an issue out of it for yourself. It's harmless so it doesn't matter if it is there or not. It will help you to develop that attitude. You will find this, too, will help to decrease the tension.

Your are safe and remind yourself of this all the time.

[Lew]

This is a big symptom for me as well. Several years ago I was afraid to eat because of it. Boon is right...just try to relax. I've been doing it for the past few days and for the first day, I relaxed, my throat still felt tense, but today I haven't noticed it at all.
Take care