Panic Attack and instestinal spasms

[chris77824]

Hi everyone. I have a problem and I just want to see if anyone has recommendations.  

I have an anxiety disorder with panic attacks. Most of the time the anxiety and panic is associated with particular phobias but not always. Here is the thing. When I get a panic attack regardless of the cause, my intestines go into major spasms and I need to go to the bathroom right away. I even have to take repeated trips to the bathroom because the spasms don't stop and linger afterwards for quite a while. I don't even feel like I can hold it.  

What is biologically going wrong? What chemical is sending this signal to my intestines? I have already been to many doctors, different psychiatrist and therapists, tried all the major kinds of medicines and supplements. Nothing helps out, so please try to offer some other advice besides the basics. The only relief I get is through immodium/Loperamide. 2-3 tablets and within an hour my intestines stop squeezing. The downside to immodium is it makes me extremely constipated. In fact, I am generally IBS-C when not going into spasm. Is there anything either natural or prescription that stops spasms like immodium but doesn't manipulate water absorption? I think I tried one of the anticholineric drugs before and they don't work.  

Any and all ideas are appreciated. As of right now the problem keeps me from working and going out places. Thank you in advance.

[Elizabeth_June]

Hi there, this exact thing happens to me, within minutes of becoming anxious, it seems.  It's a biological reaction to stress hormones that is normal. I think remar is right, if you get your anxiety under control, this will probably help with the intestinal problems. IOn the meantime, I would stay away from coffee andmaybe sure you're drinking plenty of water. I hope you feel better soon.

[remar]

You say this happens when you're anxious, so it has be do something with your anxiety. Are you seeing a therapist? Are you taking any meds for the anxiety? Maybe if you can get the anxiety under control with intestinal problems will stop. The problems you're having are not that uncommon with anxiety.