Hypochondria (ankle, sore, swollen, ache)

[nephthys]

Not that I was diagnosed with this, I feel like part of my panic disorder is because of it, or something similar to it. For the past few years I've had this fear of death, not really fear of dying but fear of getting sick with something that will kill me. I try to tell myself different or just be okay with the fact we are all dying really, but every little pop, crack, pulsation, headache, muscle ache, bruise etc leads me to think something is wrong. It's really hard to put into words but hopefully someone gets what im saying.

Im wondering how many others have the same problem?

Thanks in advance.

P.S Im 26 years old and thinking about this stuff

[cb at sea]

My daughter is like you---anything out of the ordinary, and she's on the computer, self-diagnosing! Her doctor finally told her to stay off the internet health sites!!!

You may need to talk to a professional...you're NOT crazy, but you do have an "obsession" with yourself! You can turn this around and realize that you don't have to live with this constant fear!

If this "panic disorder" is taking the place of good times in your life, you really need to do something about it. It IS treatable!!!!! Good luck!

[TouchOfWhimsy]

Yes, I have these tendencies as well! Last night we had extra covers on our bed and my two children had both snuck in on either side of me. WHen I woke up in the middle of hte night, I was all sweaty. Now, logically I know that it was because of the extra blankets and my little heat producing children pressed against me, but I was in a panic thinking that I was having night sweats, which are a sign of cancer.... headaches have me thinking I have a brain tumor, swollen glands indicate lymphoma, a cough means lung cancer (even though I've never smoked one cigarette), etc.

I know what you mean. Talking to a non-hypochondriac friend often helps. Googling does NOT help. Being busy in activities and using relaxing techniques also helps.

[nephthys]

Thanks, I am seeing a therapist and taking medication. It's getting better but todays ailment is a sore ankle. I actually had a mild panic attack this morning getting ready for work because I felt pulsations around my ankle up my leg. I hate how it controls my everyday life, i've found it easier to keep the thoughts to myself, before I was telling everyone at work and now no one believes me even when im sick.

[mimimomx3]

Originally Posted by beanandpumpkin

Yes, I have these tendencies as well! Last night we had extra covers on our bed and my two children had both snuck in on either side of me. WHen I woke up in the middle of hte night, I was all sweaty. Now, logically I know that it was because of the extra blankets and my little heat producing children pressed against me, but I was in a panic thinking that I was having night sweats, which are a sign of cancer.... headaches have me thinking I have a brain tumor, swollen glands indicate lymphoma, a cough means lung cancer (even though I've never smoked one cigarette), etc.

I know what you mean. Talking to a non-hypochondriac friend often helps. Googling does NOT help. Being busy in activities and using relaxing techniques also helps.

I know just how you feel. I have similar thoughts, even though I'm super healthy, I eat organic, I exercise, etc., I still get wierded out with every little ache or pain. I do a lot of deep breathing and have a 'calming phrase' I use: "I'm healthy and strong". Good luck...