Hi folks ! Just found this site tonight, and have been reading lots of posts. I had panic/anxiety/agoraphobia, so I sure can relate ! Biggest issues for me were that danged feeling of not being able to swallow - so I would swallow air just to make sure I COULD swallow, of course that made problem worse (and gave me gas ) I was helped with relaxation techniques, visual imagery , exposure therapy, and meds. I have been panic free for 15 years and after getting better, got my Psych degree and do In Vivo Therapy (I take people out to places they are afraid of and teach techniques to help them overcome the phobia). You know - swallowing is one of those bodily functions that we do not have to say "Brain , it is time to swallow now" - it just happens when necessary. I learned to deal with, and overcome this phobia with 3x5 cards that had positive statements (as one above) etc.

I think most of us with PAD/Anxiety/Agoraphobia are also hypochondriacs! Goes with the territory for most. I had to quit researching stuff ! It really helped too - cause as u know - if you read something that is "sorta" like what u have - then you HAVE IT !

I hope to be here on this site from now on. Sure seems like the support is here and a great site. If anyone wants to get in touch with me, feel free at imsuesue2001@yahoo.com ! Keep on keepin on !