eating = physical pain

I don't have an eating disorder , I am just afraid to eat because it causes physical pain,, So when food approaches my mouth i am fearful and if it make it's way into my mouth i then struggle to swallow. I am not sure how this fits in with this forum but i am hoping that some of you might have a suggestion to help me convince myself to eat, Somehow i have to change my perception that food causes pain to any alternative that will get me to eat.

help please
Linda

hello, I have medical probs and eating is painful plus I am so sick afterwards. I only 'eat' (drink ensure) at night because I can't eat then go to work. I'm supposed to be fed thru a tube in my bowel but I don't want bits hanging out of me, I'd rather die from malnutrition but that's my choice and right to refuse medical intervention.

I don't have any suggestions, just lots of empathy.
Do you have a physical problem that makes eating painful or is it psychological? There are lots of medical probs that can cause discomfort when eating.
Is it easier to have fluids rather than solid food? or is there particular foods you find easier than others? even if you just stick with the more comfortable foods at least it will be something. I find it is better to eat what I can and what I feel like, not to worry about what all the nutritionists say, I figure something is better than nothing. If you can drink some form of supplement that would be good.

It is really hard, and people don't understand, but hang in there.
Start with small amounts of foods that are a little easier to manage and work from there

BPDsufferer,

I was wondering if there are any foods that don't cause you pain when you consume them? Also can you consume say things like milkshakes without suffering pain?

EJ

Smiley,

I'm sorry about your difficulties!

EJ

I would find some taste you enjoy and work on flavoring and eating foods like that. Some kids get a fear of swallowing because of having to take nasty tasting medicine which is why mother's will crush a pill up in jam, etc. I'd try the same sort of thing; something easier to eat or that you enjoy, pair that with something a bit more difficult.

Start with something like Jello and then put some small pieces of fruit in the jello, (especially "easy" fruit like banana) etc. and work up to "harder" fruit or shift to quiche and put veggies in it, etc.

bpd,

I am not sure of the exact pain that you are having. It may be worth a trip to see a gastroenterologist to have this checked out.

Lots of Huggs,
Peacemaker (Sherri)

Hello Bpd. I am sorry you are suffering to this degree with pain. Have you spoken to your therapist about this issue. It could be psychological(PTSD) related or anxiety related as well if you are eating and then getting stressed afterward and feeling sick, or feeling anxious before you eat and have stomach problems afterwards due to stress. Stress is a big factorial in eating problems and sometimes the mind uses purgeous persuits or eating problems to signal stress or distress in life. Many people have these symptoms that have PTSD anxiety or even depression, and since you have been really stressed lately your system is probably overloaded with stress and causing Some of the problems at this time. I also agree with the above posters that you should see a gastro Dr to make sure you are okay, and talk to your therapist about what is happening as soon as possible so you can get the help you need before you really stop eating or wind up with an eating disorder. Getting an eating Buddy can help when you are not feeling like eating, and calling a sponsor or friend can help defuse the situation when you are feeling anxious about eating. Journaling may help you at this time as well to help you regain some composure over the difficulties you are having at this time. If you cant find a sponsor or eating Buddy, then you can find someone here that can help you during the rough times, even if you have to eat alone to retrain yourself to eat again while getting support in chat or feeling safe to eat. Take care BPD, I will be chatting again with you soon try to help yourself and get the support you need at this time. You are not alone in this Psych central can help you as well. PM anytime Soidhonia.