HYPOCHONDRIASIS

General Information

DEFINITION--A person's conviction that he or she has a serious or fatal disease, despite evidence to the contrary from medical examinations and tests. The person becomes quite informed and knowledgeable about illnesses, diagnosis and treatment, usually as a result of multiple medical evaluations and numerous contacts with health care professionals.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Brain.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes; all ages.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS--Anxiety and persistent reports of symptoms involving any body part. Concern about heart disease or cancer is common. Symptoms may change, but the person's belief that a serious condition exists does not. Frequently reported symptoms include insomnia, sexual dysfunction and gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, belching and cramps. Symptom complaints may shift and change and be very specific to general to vague.

CAUSES--Possibly a complication of other psychological disorders, but the cause is uncertain. It is more common in people who had a true organic illness in childhood or were closely involved with a sick relative.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Unknown.

HOW TO PREVENT--No specific measures known. In childhood, don't reward illness by giving a child special privileges and undue attention for being sick. Provide adequate love and support during healthy periods.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor. The diagnosis is difficult.
• Medical testing as needed to rule out an organic disease.
• Psychological evaluation.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Psychotherapy or counseling with the patient and the family. It is very difficult for persons with hypochondriasis to accept the conclusion that their health problem is not a serious organic illness.
• Regular follow-up visits with the doctor can help the patient deal with the symptoms.

> Wasting money on unnecessary--and sometimes dangerous--

medical care.

• Insisting on unnecessary surgical procedures or medications.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Generally resistant to treatment. Most patients maintain a lifelong belief that they have a serious disease and they change doctors frequently.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• For family members--Persons with hypochondriasis are often difficult to live with because of their constant worry and demands for attention. Realize that the person really suffers and try to be supportive. Reward positive behavior that is not related to physical complaints. Don't encourage the "sick role."
• For patients--Try to focus on other aspects or problems in life, rather than on these symptoms. Make an effort to avoid going to different doctors continuously and getting repeat medical tests.

MEDICATION--Medicine usually is not necessary for this disorder. Your doctor may prescribe mild tranquilizers for a short time.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions.

DIET--No special diet. Avoid alcohol.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have symptoms of hypochondriasis and want professional help to overcome the problem.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Tranquilizers used in treatment may produce side effects or dependence.