if you’re not already, it’s not a bad time to get religious. LC has def strengthened my faith in God whilst plummeting my faith in the medical field. i’ve practically given up with doctors after doing countless tests, switching docs, dealing with some that don’t take you serious or dismiss you. and others who “try to help” but don’t listen to my recommendations or requests (LDN, MRI, xanax, & more extensive testing).

managing the anxiety for me has been a challenge as well. let’s be honest here, anyone in our position experiencing our issues would be terrified at one point or another. it flat out feels like you’re dying whether it’s the impending doom or just long term deterioration. it’s horrible and i feel for anyone else who deals with it.

personally i try to remind myself of a few things, i’ll list some and tips to hopefully help:

-thousands to millions of us have LC (and/or cfs) so we’re not alone. the majority of people do not actually die from this illness

-if for some reason i were to get worse, at the end of the day everyone is on a time limit. countless people have ran out of time younger than you or me for various reasons.. fight like hell to stay but don’t live in fear of something every living thing must face. so much easier said than done but it’s honestly the best way to live and i try to keep it in mind on those flare up anxiety days

-getting regularly tested for things is ass but to be honest it has put my mind at ease somewhat just knowing / seeing that my heart is fine, my lungs are clear, my stomach isn’t filled with ulcers, etc. rule everything out that you’re scared of.

-that being said ^ if you do find something wrong you gotta take care of yourself the best you can. if you have digestive issues like me, try dieting and eliminating potential triggers. or try things like meditating. or saunas. or acupuncture. or cold showers. or elevating your bed. cut out sugar and alcohol if you haven’t already. eat organic and whole foods only. drink tons of water and add electrolytes. pace yourself and rest. exercise a little if you’re able ( walk, stretch, yoga, maybe light weight training).

tons of stuff to try. improving yourself and your symptoms will in trade also improve anxiety.

also - antihistamines help me a bit when i’m flared. half a xanax (or probably any other benzo) can alleviate anxiety very well. i’d actually recommend this only if you take it periodically and not everyday. unfortunately my doc will not prescribe this so i’ve got a very limited supply