[18F] Experiencing severe anxiety and nausea with additional symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it seems like you might be experiencing:

• Anxiety Disorder: This is characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities. Examples of anxiety disorders include panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These feelings may cause physical symptoms, such as a fast heart rate and shakiness.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy (talk therapy), behavioral therapy, and medications.

• Depression: This is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

• Psychosomatic Symptoms: These are physical symptoms that can be caused by mental factors such as stress and anxiety. This could explain your nausea, aches, and breathing difficulties.

  • Treatment often involves addressing the underlying mental health issue, such as anxiety or depression.

• Psychosis: This is a mental condition that causes you to lose touch with reality. You might see, hear, or believe things that aren’t real. Psychosis is a symptom, not an illness. It can be triggered by a mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, and social support.

Please remember that while these are potential explanations for your symptoms, only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Seek professional help: It's important to talk to a healthcare provider about your symptoms. They can provide a diagnosis and help you manage your symptoms. If you're feeling suicidal, it's crucial to reach out to a mental health professional immediately.

2. Practice self-care: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, and reducing caffeine and alcohol can help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.

3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: These can help manage symptoms of anxiety. Techniques include deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.

4. Stay connected: Reach out to trusted friends and family. They can provide emotional support and help you find professional help.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms worsen or you start to feel suicidal, seek immediate medical help.
• If you start to experience severe physical symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical help.
• If your symptoms are interfering with your ability to function in daily life, seek medical help.

Remember, it's important to reach out to a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.