Worries, Fears and Anxiety Disorders / Question
Published: February 23, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have been a very nervous teenager in the past 5 years, since grade 7. I have a very nervous stomach and it's painful and I wish it would stop. I have got tested and the doctor said I have a nervous stomach and my stomach closes every time I try to eat when it hurts, but there's nothing to take for it. I'm afraid this stomach problem will ruin my life because it gets so bad. It makes me cry and sometimes eventually throw up. Usually I feel a little better after and it goes away slowly. People have told me its all in my head. Could it be? Or could I have a problem that needs to be treated? Could I have a social anxiety disorder? Because I do get very light headed and nervous around people also that makes my stomach hurt. Do you suggest I go to a doctor again? I try so hard to get rid of it or get my mind off of it but nothing works. Eventually it goes away but it hurts along the way. I would really appreciate you responding to my question:). By the way, right now it hurts. Please Help.
Signed: Nervous Stomach Or Anxiety Disorder
Dear Nervous Stomach Or Anxiety Disorder,
TeenHealthFX realizes that this is a very painful and stressful experience for you. It may feel like your nervous stomach is taking over your life and preventing you from doing what you want. Not knowing the cause or how to treat your problem can make these feelings even worse.
Many people have nervous stomachs and the severity varies from person to person. Anxiety, stress and tension can all contribute to a nervous stomach. It is important to find out the source of your problem. What agitates your stomach more than anything else? Is the anticipation of your stomach hurting bringing on more pain? It may be hard to analyze all this at first, but it will help you get a sense of what is exactly going on.
You mention that you have seen a doctor but you may want to see another if you are still suffering and not happy with the diagnosis of the first. Since your problem has persisted for so long you should definitely seek another opinion. A doctor can perform specific tests and refer you to a specialist if needed.
Perhaps keeping a journal of what you eat and a separate one for your thoughts and feelings can be of help. By identifying what is contributing to your nervous stomach you may be able to combat the effects and prevent further discomfort. You may want to try relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga to help calm any anxiety you have. Only your doctor or a psychologist/psychiatrist can tell you if you have a social anxiety disorder and direct you to the right sources for treatment.
TeenHealthFX urges to seek a second opinion. You should not be living in pain. If you need help finding a doctor and live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens whose parents talk to them regularly about the dangers of drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those whose parents don’t, yet only 1 in 4 teens report having these conversations. 
