What Exactly Do People Mean When They Say They Ah E A ‘Knot In Their Stomach!

[Raidergal2022]

When people say that they have a ‘knot in the stomach’ from stress/anxiety what exactly are they feeling? Is it pain, what sensation is it?

I have been having esophagus issues (diagnosed dysmotility) but also have anxiety. Often I get a sensation which lasts a few minutes (or a hour at a more subtle level) that feels like I cannot breath. A bit like if you get hit in the stomach with a football, but on a milder level and without the pain.

I assumed it was due to the physical health issue but as I have anxiety too I was wondering if it was what most people describe as a knot in the stomach

[Old_Geezer]

Probably just stress induced muscle tension. But I could be wrong.

[bookbinder]

https://www.brit.co/heres-why-you-get-a-knot-in-your-stomach-how-to-get-rid-of-it/