Anxiety caused by long term medical condition - how to cope?

[jennielouises]

Hi, I have OCD and emetophobia as well as acid reflux and IBS. Does anyone know how to cope when getting anxious about physical symptoms of anxiety that you can't control? My acid reflux is really bad at the moment and every time I reflux or burp I get a wave of anxiety. I can't take my mind off it as it is all the time and it is making me miserable. I take strong medication for it and although it stops it being acid, I still reflux food and warm liquid. I know I can tolerate it as I have before (I have had it 13 years) but suddenly it's really bothering me and I can't get passed it. Any help would be really appreciated x

[BlueIris]

Mindfulness is great for this sort of thing. I'm sure Joe will be along in a moment and he's much more eloquent on this than I am, but learning to acknowledge and accept your anxious thoughts can work wonders.

[jennielouises]

Oh I am terrible at Mindfulness. Try it all the time but its hard when working. Plus every time I burp or reflux I have a negative thought and focusing on it to change my thought is just that, focusing on it!