As a kindergarten teacher, I've legitimately considered quitting my job over this stupid phobia, but I can't let it win and neither can you. You're so right. Kids are gross, schools are gross and things spread like wildfire. BUT...the ways to prevent the bug remain the same - good hand washing! And of course I always have it in the back of my mind whenever I have a student out that it MUST be a stomach bug. 95% of the time it isn't. And I spend my time all worked up over nothing.
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I definitely feel the same anxieties that you do, but you are doing all the right things in terms of preventing yourself (and many of your students) from exposure! I can highly recommend the Clorox brand hand-sanitizer for those times when you just can't get to a sink for proper hand-washing. It has saved me many times! So glad you love your new job! :)
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Sorry for not using TW in this posting everyone. It was meant to be raw and show the reality of what some of us go through. I linked the band that I use below!
Reliefband Classic Anti-Nausea Wristband | FDA Cleared Nausea & Vomiting Relief for Anxiety, Migraine, Motion Sickness (Car, Air, Train, Sea) Hangover & Morning Sickness | Drug Free (Teal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PG4NUOS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-pEIFbFJBRHPG
with the ice, do you just hold it in your hands and stuff? if so, maybe try using some cooling gel, like this, it feels really cold and will cool you down if you get really warm when youre anxious (like me). only thing is that it has a mild menthol smell so it might be disturbing to classmates/teachers. either way i highly recommend it! i slather it all over my head when i have a headache too hahahah
At work I have to clean it up more often than I would want, but I have this powder that you sprinkle over it and sweep it up after a few minutes. And that’s all you have to do is sprinkle it in completely cover it, and sweep it up after a few min. All of the smell is gone too. I sometimes sneak a few cans from work with me before we have frat parties and that stuff is a lifesaver. Where I used to work I had to just use paper towels and bend down right next to it but now I just stand up and sprinkle powder. Here’s the stuff I use it’s called D-Vour: https://www.amazon.com/Big-D-Vomit-Control-16oz/dp/B000YF55W4
Here is one of the ice packs I have. I like it bc it is basically a giant beanie of cool on my head for migraines
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0794Z79JL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_evR5DbRKRJRE0
The other one I have is a bit simpler (easier to configure in a rush), my mom got it for me years ago though so I’ll have to do a little more looking to find it since it won’t be in my amazon history lol
Absolutely! If you’re in canada: https://www.amazon.ca/Scared-sick-self-help-workbook-Emetophobia/dp/1788083172
If you’re in the states: https://www.amazon.com/Scared-sick-self-help-workbook-Emetophobia/dp/1788083172
If you live outside of these two places you can still order because they ship internationally! I hope you can get it, and I hope it works for you. 💖💖
This is such a hard thing. Last year when my husband got sick I completely panicked. We live in a small one bedroom/bathroom apartment and he didn’t quite make it to the toilet. He cleaned up after himself (which I felt bad about but I just couldn’t). I immediately went to the store (once the panic attack stopped enough to drive) and got masks, gloves, and bleach. I cleaned every surface, the entire bathroom, bought myself a new toothpaste since we usually share one, and literally BOILED the dishes he had used out of fear.
I didn’t end up catching whatever he had (it could have been food poisoning too) but the fear and anxiety caused so much diarrhea for me that I might as well have caught it, lol. So I understand your feelings right now. Just be careful, wash your hands, sanitize every surface. You will be okay!
Also, my sister works in healthcare and when I called her that day panicking she told me to order these: SANI-CLOTH BLEACH Germicidal Disposable Wipe 75 ct https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DJGRTKG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gNlfFbT0R5WHA
They’re out of stock right now, probably due to the pandemic. But as soon as they’re back I’m buying more. They’re great to have on hand for moments like that.
Not a stupid question at all - Amazon! With me everything I buy is from amazon lol 😂😅
Prince of Peace Ginger Candy 4 oz. (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0779PY9KC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yCDZEb6RA0Y9J
Emetrol actually makes a tablet now that has the same ingredient as Nauzene, the only difference is it's lemon flavored instead of cherry. When I tried it, it worked the same as Nauzene for me. Here's a link.
Found this on the UK Amazon site.
While probably not required if I helps you feel better go for it
I’m going to be flying next week, and I am buying some of these to be able to wipe down any surfaces on the plane, or at my destination:
You can check it out on Amazon, but these wipes are proven to kill lots of different bacteria and viruses, including sb* viruses! I hope this helps!
There actually is a hand sanitizer out there that kills noro (a user on this sub told me about it a few weeks ago); it's a Clorox one. I actually did some reading on it yesterday from someone who tested it as well.
Dr. Annie's Experiments info on Clorox Hand Sanitizer
Hope this helps!
Yup! Clorox Commercial Solutions Liquid Hand Sanitizing Spray for Professional Use and Everyday Hand Cleaning - Clorox Hand Sanitizer Spray, 2 ounce - 1 Pack https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B004EHZ79E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NNBSGST8WPHXFW8WW8BN
No problem! These are the wipes I use for my stuff like my phone etc after work. They kill after 60 seconds so it’s reassuring & hospital grade. ☺️ Clinell Antibacterial Hand Wipes Suitable for Hands and Surfaces - Pack of 20 Wipes - Dermatologically Tested, Kills 99.99% of Germs https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08B68VJ11/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_G0N6WC3K2NPKXCHPH5N0
Despite my fears, we go on cruises a lot. Like crazy a lot since we live near a port. Seems unbelievable I would do that. However, ginger capsules legitimately help with motion sickness. I get the full ginger ones. Even my husband takes them occasionally and says they help a lot. And he always says “didn’t help!” For everything lol. These are the ones I get. And I also keep mints with me. You will do fine. That sounds like an awesome vacation. Nature's Way Ginger Root, Traditional Digestive Support*, 1,110 mg Per Serving, Non-GMO Project Verified, 240 Capsules https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074N99XL1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_6G9BN0WW8TBNDGRCH19C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This particular one. I asked. There are a bunch of options, though.
This book is a full programme that you can follow at home:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Overcoming-Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder-behavioural-ebook/dp/B002S0KBOK
I'd also recommend Katie D'Arth on YouTube. Both of these resources talk about OCD, but the treatment is the same. Your obsession is being sick, and your compulsions are everything you do - from mentally reassuring yourself to constant cleaning rituals - that helps you feel safe.
I'd also recommend practicing a real positive 'parent like' voice when you're feeling anxious. Try as hard as you can not to reassure yourself; practice instead saying that being sick is unpleasant, but it's quick and you'll always get better afterwards. You are safe :)
Only need 4 more now. Please spread the word. I am also doing a fund raiser at http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/emetophobia-underresearched-misunderstood-and-undertreated/x/3426346 One of the perks is an article about how to find a therapist to treat emetophobia. I really love working on this study. I have met some awesome people who have decided to participate and further our understanding of emetophobia.
Hey! Happy for you and your date!
Think of this as a really opportune way to expose yourself and conquer this fear. You're building new memories at this place, more fun and pleasant memories, to replace the bad ones. You're taking control and telling this phobia "no" right to its face. And you'll have someone there to help you!
What helps me when I go out is knowing I have things with me that will help me feel better if I start feeling weird. I always have Zofran with me no matter what, along with a plethora of other meds (Pepcid, Tums, Tylenol, Benedryl, Ginger tablets, etc.). They're all packed away in a little pill box so it doesn't take up much space. I also have a ziplock bag of ginger chews that I'm always quick to chew on if I start feeling off, and they help a ton.
I hope you have a fun date with your crush and you guys can create new happy memories! May your team win (unless y'all playing the Rockets in that case I take that back haha).
https://www.23andme.com/you/explorer/snp/?snp_name=rs601338
Check this link (it will go to your raw data)
GG: FUT2 secretor AG: FUT2 secretor AA: FUT2 non-secretor, lower amounts of bifidobacteria, resistant to norovirus
I’m an AG so I think to think I’m half resistant. But, I know that’s not true.
[Nilaqua Family Protect, Pocket Travel, Alcohol Free Hand Sanitiser, 55ml https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M2VKG8P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_42MC6D9A103WAS0H5S7Z?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1]() i have this one :)
No worries. :) Also I found some tums that taste a lot better! When I first tried tums I had the better ones and when I got a new box I got the gross ones. I don’t like them either.
But if you’re interested I’ll post the ones. They so much better haha.
https://www.amazon.com/TUMS-Smoothies-Strength-Chewable-Heartburn/dp/B000NVPPYC
When I was on 8mg Zofran I got terrible constipation. But now that I’ve switched to 4mgs, it only happens if I end up having to take more than 2 doses within a week.
Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VUYQ6I?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Natural Factors, Organic Low FODMAP Reliefiber, Digestive Fiber Powder, Tropical, 7.09 Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PFQJ5WW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4TB6XD3B1GYWBJ3YRSQH.
I’m going to try this since I’m having the same experience. Metamucil doesn’t work for me I get so bloated. We’ll see..
I'm so sorry for your loss. I really hope everything goes well for you. This book helped me a lot with conceiving so I would highly recommend it for you if you're interested. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062326031/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_t1_afqVFbTK3MQEW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
No, the basic antibacterial hand sanitizer will not kill it. There is a special one that does, however, and while expensive, I routinely splurge on it because I'm a teacher and handling children all day (no thanks, lol).
You need to wash your hands with soap and warm water. That is what gets rid of it every time without fail.
EDIT just for clarity... I've used the regular kind before eating plenty of times and have always been fine. Odds are, if you're touching the virus, it's happening in the bathroom, and you're gonna wash your hands with water before leaving, so you're fine. I don't want you to panic and never use hand sanitizer again, lol. It DOES work... just not for norovirus specifically.
Also look into the book “cure your emetophobia and thrive.” There’s an edition for youngsters. Think reading it will help you out a great deal.
https://www.amazon.com/Cure-Emetophobia-Thrive-Young-Persons/dp/B01N0DB6KT
Yes!! I drink ginger tea and eat ginger candies allll the time. It’s borderline a compulsion at this point, but it helps with mild nausea. I live in the US, but I’ve attached Amazon links to two of my favorites below.
I hope they help! You could also order the ginger chews off amazon. Those help me a lot. I’ll attach a link.
Gem Gem All Natural Chewy Ginger Candy Variety Bundle Pack 1.25oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRKM44G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nUWFEbBNW5T6Q
Thanks this is so helpful! I was thinking of buying these wipes or another kind of bleach wipes for my own peace of mind.
So basically if someone who was sick the night prior comes into work and hangs her jacket up next to/touching mine, mine isn't automatically infected?
Of course I worry that the bleach solution they used wasn't strong enough, but at the end of the day they're going to follow the guidelines. And our infection control nurse is very aware of this. Some residents will get sick in the common area where I work and another fear of mine is seeing or hearing people get sick... so I hope that does not happen although it likely will.
How long did it take for your outbreak to pass?
Hi! I looked into your comment above and decided to do a bit of research. They're a bit expensive, would you say they're worth the price? I'd be willing to pay if it made a difference, as i believe the same happened to me after a stomach virus.
The ones i were looking at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Garden-Life-Probiotics-Ultimate-Vegetarian/dp/B00AR0ENJ2/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
What about these?
Baha. Yessss. You mean these ? Ps they're on amazon for $14 something! I've never heard of them before. I only knew about the Lysol spray haha. # gamechanger
I visit the gym every day. I'm into lifting weights and so I use a wide variety of equipment. To make matters worse for me, I have eczema on my hands. My solution is full-finger workout gloves. These are the ones I use: link here and there are different ones available. Happy exercising.
I wouldn't say I have any coping methods other than distraction (TV mostly, comedies).
I have to agree that the majority of the posts here seem to just collude and enable each other.
One of the biggest changes in my life has been reading the Thrive programe. There's a mountain of reviews on Amazon saying that it works. The author has a lot of Videos of fellow sufferers who are now free of this problem too.
It takes a lot of work and I wouldn't say I'm even close to cured, however it makes you realize that Emetophobia isn't something that happens TO YOU. It's merely a symptom of poorly managed thinking styles, beliefs and behaviors. Change those and Emetophobia goes away (as well as other things).
The reason why emetophobia sends us neurotic is because we do our best to try to avoid the thing we fear most. The problem is that it's impossible to be 100% certain that it isn't going to happen. As a result, we go almost insane following safety seeking routines and behaviors to try to avoid the unavoidable.
I'm still working my way through the programme, but one key thing I that sticks out in my mind is this - think of an emetophobia and each catastrophic thought we have as a fire. Currently we're fire fighting with extinguishers such as coping strategies, avoidance and safety behaviors to put out these "fires".
What if we didn't create those fires in the first place?
It's easier said than done, but it is possible. People without this fear aren't just "better" at coping with the thoughts - they don't have them in the first place! We're doing it to ourselves!
I've been really busy lately and haven't been able to make much progress with it, but I was really benefitting from this workbook: http://www.amazon.ca/The-Mindfulness-Acceptance-Workbook-Anxiety/dp/1572244992
Go to the nearest bookstore and see if you can find it or a different one that sounds good to you. It's not the same as therapy obviously, as something that's kind of tailored for you specifically, but I think you may find some relief in working through a workbook like this. I was also able to find a free drop-in place for councilling here in Canada, not sure if they have anything like that where you are, but do look.
I can't say anything that can make this better for you, but I understand your fear and frustration; we all do. Take it one day at a time. Drink lots of water throughout the day and chamomile tea when you're starting to feel anxious. This will get better.
Have you considered making up a bottle of sanitizer to spray onto things?
That stuff kills Hiv-1 virus on contact. I spray it on everything I own. Fuck I sanitize my dishes in it.
Look into this book: Thrive Emetophobia. I downloaded it on my kindle and it's made a huge difference for me :) It really helps to understand your thinking patterns.