HYPOCHONDRIASIS

 Basic information

description

Hypochondriasis is a disorder that causes a person to feel that he or she has a serious or fatal disease, even though there is no medical evidence of this. It occurs equally in men and women. It may begin at any age, but is most common in early adulthood. A person with the disorder may be aware that the fear of having a serious disease is unfounded, excessive, or unreasonable.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Preoccupied for over 6 months with the fear of having a serious disease. There may be constant thought about the possibility of heart disease or cancer.
• Anxiety and reports of symptoms involving any body part. Symptoms may be vague or specific.
• Symptoms may change, but the person's belief that a serious condition exists does not.

causes

The cause is uncertain. There may be childhood developmental factors or predisposing factors and others. Social position or education level or marital status do not appear to be risk factors.

risk increases with

• Some people may be more at risk:
  • Those who have anxiety disorder, depression, panic disorder, or other mental health conditions.
  • Having family members with hypochondriasis.
  • Had a serious illness or a form of abuse in childhood.
  • A belief that good health means no symptoms occur.
• Symptoms may be triggered by certain events:
  • Family member or others develop a serious disorder.
  • Death of a relative or close friend.
  • Periods of increased emotional stress.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific measures known.

expected outcomes

Patients may have periods of hypochondriasis for months and years, and then go months and years without hypochondriasis. Some patients recover from the disorder. For others, it may be a lifelong problem.

possible complications

• Can affect all aspects of a person's life. This includes work, social, and personal relationships.
• A real illness may be overlooked.
• Becoming dependent on pain relievers or sedatives.
• Patients tend to "doctor shop." They feel rejected if they aren't believed about the symptoms.
• Taking unneeded medical tests that are dangerous or could result in complications.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Medical tests may be done as needed. A mental (emotional) health exam may be done also.
• Your health care provider will assure you that the diagnosis of the symptoms shows there is no threat to life or risk of disability. Regular follow-up medical appointments may be scheduled for further assurance.
• Having the diagnosis of hypochondriasis is hard for anyone to accept. Feelings of anger, sadness, or frustration are normal. Education about the disorder for you and your family may help you cope. Your health care provider is the first source. Then learn what you can from books or researching on the Internet.
• Behavior therapy can help a patient understand what generates the symptoms and how to overcome worrisome thoughts.
• Interpersonal therapy can help a patient identify personal relationship problems and how to correct them.
• Group therapy can help some patients.
• Patients should depend on one health care provider for their treatment. Avoid going to different health care providers and having repeat medical tests.

medications

• Antidepressants may be prescribed for anxiety or depressive symptoms.
• Other drugs may be prescribed for symptoms such as mood disorders or stress.

activity

Exercise daily. This can improve physical fitness as well as having a positive affect on mental health. It helps improve mood, reduce tension, and improve sleep.

diet

Eat three regular, healthy meals daily. Avoid alcohol or caffeine.

 notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of this disorder and wants help with the problem.

Special Notes: