Hello jcbonne1. I am truly sorry for your problems, in particular since they are so widespread throughout your body, which makes finding a "specialist" so difficult.
I have read through most of your posts, and those of other who are trying to help.
Since this is a peripheral neuropathy forum, I am curious as to why you are posting here. The "nerve problems" you describe are not typical of PN, although as anyone who has it would agree, there are probably no really absolutely typical presentations of this maddening disease.
The answers you are getting, although certainly well meant, are all over the map, which relates to your widespread symptoms. I don't believe this is an appropriate way for you to get an "answer". All these suggestions, some of which are contradictory, will ultimately make you more confused. You also seem to be trying to hard to manage your own medical care.
Although not impossible, it is unusual for a person to develop so many problems related to so many body areas in such a short period of time. This may be why you cannot find one or even two specialists who can make a specific diagnosis.
I believe you need to find a generalist, such as a good internist, who will act as your navigator, referring you to appropriate specialists when indicated, and gathering up all the information in one place.
It is very difficult for anyone, even a medical professional, to diagnose an illness from afar. However, permit me to make an educated guess as to what may be some of your problem.
You describe a sensation of not being able to swallow, and sometimes, even to breathe. You also describe a strange reaction to listening to Led Zeppelin, who I assume you listened to when you were younger, which may be bringing up subconscious feelings of loss.
I believe you also described your heart racing.
All these can be symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. There is a condition called "globus hystericus", which exactly describes your swallowing symptoms. One can have that and still have a more physical problem like Barrett's esophogitis.
When you feel like you can't swallow, are you breathing rapidly and experiencing a rapid heart beat (like 90-100 or more beats per minute)? If so, try to control your breathing, or even better, breath into a paper bag, and see what happens. Rapid breathing causes the blood to become too alkaline, which then triggers weird feelings all over your body.
Of course, you need to have the professionals rule out any physical problems before a psychological diagnosis is made. You certainly can have both. In fact, some physical problem may be triggering the psychological one.
Anxiety and panic attacks are treatable. So is Barrett's esophogitis, and divirticulosis. Don't give up hope!

Jump to this post