I am 30 years old, female, and plagued by a frequent feeling of being strangled, episodes I not-so-affectionately call "the stranglies." When these episodes occur, I find it difficult to get a deep breath or to swallow. My mouth sometimes fills with saliva because I cannot swallow without feeling like I will choke, so I spit into a tissue. For the really bad ones, it's even hard to speak and my voice sounds strained. These symptoms then lead to feelings of panic and I begin to feel dizzy and hot.
These episodes usually last around 30-60 minutes and nothing truly helps. I have the urge to walk or jog or to suck on a piece of candy which brings on belching. After a belch or even a bowel movement, the pressure subsides for a moment and slowly rebuilds. Taking a cold shower or breath of cold air (if it's winter) can also be soothing. But mostly it's just a waiting game until the pressure slowly subsides.
These episodes can happen at any time, which makes me nervous to make any plans or commitments. It's impacting my life in other drastic ways; I'm afraid to start a family because the idea of being pregnant and having MORE pressure in my body during one of these episodes would be unbearable.
They strike anytime, but it seems more likely that they will occur in the following scenarios:
* when I'm riding in a car, plane, boat, etc
* in a hot or loud environment
* just after eating
* going too long without eating
* being congested, as with a cold
* rigorous exercise
Over the years, I have had examinations of my heart, lungs, brain, stomach/esophagus, hormones, and more. I'm a healthy gal! The only things that have turned up are:
* iron-deficiency anemia
* signs of minor acid reflux
Treating either of these has not prevented these attacks from occurring.
Is anyone out there who might have an explanation for this or any idea how I can prevent or end an episode once it begins? Any ideas what else to explore? Years of doctors are scratching their heads saying it must be anxiety, and it's certainly CAUSING anxiety... but, in my experience, panic attack symptoms don't alleviate after belching!