Need Some Advice For Next Steps
Hi, i’m 22, new to this platform but i’m really just concerned about something.. unsure if it’s really just anxiety or something worse. (sorry for the long texts)
Started having bad acid reflux more than a week ago.. went to the er a few days ago, came back ok said it might just be acid reflux, got meds for it, met with my doctor the next day. Been having really poor sleep the past few days. (max 2 hours) He said it might be acid reflux.. if i want an endoscopy i have to wait 2 months :/ Parents don’t seem to care that much about my symptoms but the night after the day of the er i started getting a really bad sinking feeling in my chest, caused me to not sleep. I’m unsure what that is, rather it be anxiety or what? Lasted for majority of the day.. tried to exercise, take walks didn’t really work.. wore off a little then i kept switching from either sinking feeling in my stomach area or i started getting pressure in my head which lasted for hours. Was able to sleep for 4 hours this time (i think) and when i woke up, had that bad sinking feeling in my chest again. Tried to come on here to talk to people, it sort of helped but then the pressure to my head started again. I don’t know what to do at this point. Part of me is hoping for the best, part of me is just afraid for the worse. Been up since 2am.. wanting to set an appointment today but can’t call till 7:30 and unsure when i can even get in.. just really worried and i’d like prayers please just to be sure i’ll be okay. I really don’t want to wait out 2 months to see if something might be wrong but idk.. i’m sort of worried about sleeping pills since the medication i take for the reflux already makes me really dehydrated during sleep so.. hopefully can urge a therapist for anxiety medication. Since i’m unsure how else to deal with this or if it is linked to something more serious.. just please keep me in your thoughts whether it is serious or turns out not to be.. could also just get some words if anyone knows someone whose had something similar/same, currently going through it or has some advice or thoughts.. sorry again for venting, i just really needed to get this off my chest as it is a battle i’m dealing with.
@rlaa
I'm glad you could vent.
And welcome to seven cups 💜 🥰
That sounds exhausting.
And it's hard when we fully don't understand something, to not be anxious.
When I have that sinking feeling, I listen to music, get cozy, hot water bottle and I'm gentle with myself, telling myself, this will pass and it can't hurt me 💜💖
@rlaaI'm sorry you're going through this difficult time. It sounds very stressful and exhausting. Acid reflux can cause chest discomfort and sleep problems, but the sinking feeling and head pressure can also be linked to anxiety, especially when combined with poor sleep. It’s important to keep your doctor informed about all your symptoms and concerns. If your symptoms worsen or you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other alarming signs, seek emergency care immediately. In the meantime, practicing gentle relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or mindfulness, might help ease anxiety. You're doing the right thing by reaching out and seeking help. Remember, you're not alone.
@rlaa
Hi,
I’m really sorry that you’re going through such painful and confusing symptoms. It makes sense that you’re scared — dealing with chest sensations, sleep loss, and head pressure all at once can be overwhelming.
From my own experience, acid reflux and chest discomfort often get worse during periods of stress, worry, or emotional overload. Our stomach, chest, and mind are strongly connected. When the mind is tense or anxious, the body can react in ways that feel frightening. But this doesn’t automatically mean something serious is wrong — it often means the body is responding to stress.
Is there anything emotionally heavy going on in your life these days — pressure about studies, work, relationships, or even feeling unsupported? Sometimes these things can quietly build up and show up through the body.
About your parents — please try not to blame yourself or feel uncared for. Many parents simply don’t know how to give emotional comfort, even if they care deeply in their own way. Their way of caring may show up more in practical support than emotional understanding. That doesn’t mean your feelings don’t matter — they absolutely do.
It’s very good that you’re planning to call for an appointment. Even if the endoscopy takes time, a doctor can still help you manage your symptoms and your anxiety in the meantime. And yes, talking to a therapist or doctor about anxiety medication or short-term support might help you get through this phase.
You are not alone in this. Many people have had similar symptoms caused by a mix of reflux and anxiety, and they eventually improved. I truly hope you get relief soon, and I’m keeping you in my thoughts.
We’re here with you.