What Causes Stomach Upset Along With Anxiety?

Posted on Fri, 12 Dec 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 Answered on

Wed, 7 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a veterinary school interview the other day. I was so nervous I could barely speak, upset stomach and was probably trembling. Obviously It did not go as well as I had hoped. I have a few more coming up and don't want the same thing to happen. I have anxiety in this type of situation which is crippling. Would valium be a good option for me. I am flying to the interviews, so it's quite an investment and there is a lot at stake for me. If so, what would you recommend for dose and how to take it. The interview process lasts about 6 hours including lunch and tour of campus. I weigh 115 pounds. I would only use it for the interviews, because I function well enough otherwise. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
this is performance anxiety.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to HCM.
I can understand your concerns.
I think your problem is more of a performance anxiety than an anxiety disorder.
In such cases, tablet inderal is the best option. It acts for 3-6 hours. It can be taken half an hour before facing the stressful situation but only after doctor's advice. Your local doctor / psychiatrist can prescribe this drug to you.
The time-release formulations are also available which act for longer duration.

Regarding valium, its a sedative drug that will cause drowsiness and will interfere in your work. Hence it will not be my first choice.

Hipe this helps.
Any further queries are welcome.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad