Anxiety symptom?

[scaredstiff365]

I have been anxiously waiting out the period to test for HIV (which was low risk oral)...however i believe i have an anxiety disorder in regards to HIV as i have tested repeatedly in the past for no risk or based on irrational feelings. I guess my question is would Anxiety cause a change in my bowels...lately they have been less frequent and a little softer than usual??? hope i posted in the correct area, thks.

[txlonly29]

I am going through a very similar situation as you had described. I am not sexually active but at a moment of weakness I had protected sex with a person that I did not know very well. I had a few drinks that night and that is really causing me to second guess myself as whether it was a safe encounter or not. I am an extremely cautious person and I have a deep fear of HIV. After the incident I really didnt think much of it and then I began to do research on the internet and my anxiety went through the roof. I suffered headaches, de-realization, depression, and stomach problems. My incident happened over 2 months ago and I have been tested 5 times at 2, 4, 5.5, 6, and 8 weeks. All of the tests were negative and I am assured by most that my status will not change. I am holding off two more weeks for my 12 week test for peace of mind. This has been the worst time of my life and I sympathize and pray for all of us going through this. I have felt so alone during these months and and never realized how much damage anxiety can have on your body. Hang in there everyone, everything will be ok and this will all pass.

[stresed1]

I can relate to your anxiety.  I too, have a major HIV fear and yet put myself in a situation that has me stressing again.  Heterosexual oral sex...I am female and was on the receiving end.  I know it was extremely low risk, but I can't get it out of my head.  UGH!  I will get tested at 6 weeks, but the waiting is painful.  Anyway, I just wanted you to know I understand how you are feeling.  Take care

[scaredstiff365]

thank you so much for your reply, its like almost embarrassing to feel this way, cause im fine one moment then im thinking what if the condom broke and all my fears flood back (irrational), it is definitely an issue im looking to get professional help for.

[nursegirl6572]

You are wise to be posting in the anxiety forum.  You have identified your main problem here, anxiety.  First of all...you never required testing for oral sex....oral sex is not a risk for HIV.  Secondly, if you have been continously testing for no/low risk situations, then it is time to seek some professional help for your irrational worries.  Anxiety causes very real symptoms....including change in bowel function...it can cause diarrhea, constipation, etc.

Time to put your worries into perspective and address your anxiety and HIV phobia.

Good Luck.