Expert: Sally - 1/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello. I am a 48-year-old woman with panic disorder, but otherwise relatively physically healthy. I smoke cigarettes and drink an occasional beer. Because of my panic disorder, I am afraid to travel far from my home, so I am unable to see a doctor in person for my problem. My problem began last September. I developed a sore, very dry throat. I cut back on eating. By October, my throat felt like there was a lump there, like every time I swallowed food, it would get stuck in my throat (which would then prompt a panic attack). So, in order to avoid a panic attack, I then stopped eating "real" food. Now I only eat baby food, pudding, and lots of soup broth. I am down to 98 pounds, which isn't too bad, since I'm only 4'10". But I am worried that I will continue to lose weight. I have lost so much weight so quickly that my skin is horribly saggy, and of course I have no energy. I am drinking Ensure, V8, and orange juice daily for vitamins, plus lots of water and Sprite to stay hydrated. I am thinking my "lumpy throat" was originally a sore throat, but my panic disorder may have turned it into an eating disorder. Any suggestions? I'm starting to get a little scared, not to mention....I'M SO HUNGRY! Thank you for your time.
Kat

ANSWER: Hi Kat,

Thanks for taking the first step in posting on the All Experts Website.  I guess from reading you post, I am more concerned that there may be something physically in your throat that is preventing you from swallowing.  I realise that it is hard for you to see a GP due to your panic disorder, however is there anyway possible that you would feel comfortable with in seeing to assess your throat more closely?

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QUESTION: Forgive me, but I do not understand your last sentence.

Answer
Hi Kat,

My apologies - is there anyway that you could see a doctor or GP to assess your throat.  I realise that you suffer from panic disorders however I am concerned that there may be something physically in your throat that prevents you from swallowing properly.