I've suffered from anxiety/panic attacks for many years. It manifests itself in many different ways, many types of physical symptoms. Lately I have felt a tightening in my throat and my rational side knows it's just anxiety, but my irrational side can convince myself that there is some awful physical reason and I won't be able to swallow. This in turn makes swallowing difficult b/c it's all I'm concentrating on and it sends me right into a panic. It's always worst right after I eat or drink. I should add that I am 38 weeks pregnant and my digestive system is all screwed up anyway with lots of acid reflux that is making me uncomfortable as well. I am also probably more anxious than I've even been before in my life while waiting for this arrival! Any thoughts or similar stories would be greatly appreciated!

Been there, done that!! Along with what's mentioned in the previous posts, if you're concentrating on this sensation, chances are you swallow more often, which actually dries out your throat, and you're possibly swallowing with more muscle contraction, and the two make the whole sensation worse. Try this, if you can--when you first wake up in the morning, (while still sleepy!) swallow and see how it feels--probably much better than later in the day--which is a sign of anxiety, not a medical condition, y'know? Best wishes for you and the baby!!! --t

Annoying as it is, it is just a symptom of anxiety, When you stop and breathe slowly through your nose you relax and this also helps your throat to relax. It's mostly reminding yourself that this is "just a side effect of anxiety. It's no big deal. I can handle this and it is not something that is a life or death situation. I can still function beautifully while feeling this feeling."

It does get better in time so be patient with yourself and always soothe yourself.

Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that I have this sensation a lot. It doesn't get worse when I eat, but I can't stand to have anything around my neck because I feel like I'm choking. Here's my theory- When you are tense your neck muscles tighten up. I think that some of these muscles along the side of your neck tighten up too and those are the ones that I've noticed make me feel like something is squeezing me around my neck. It really is just anxiety, just tell yourself that. Try stretching your neck side to side, squeezing your shoulder blades together, and massaging. Maybe that will help a little. I know it's hard to convince yourself that it's only anxiety because I struggle with this every day. Hang in there. I hope the delivery goes well. How exciting to have a new little one!