Hypochondriasis Monique Hood

Hypochondria Hypochondria is a somatoform disorder. Hypochondria is described as the abnormal chronic anxiety of ones health. Hypochondriacs become unduly alarmed about any physical or psychological symptoms they detect no matter how minor the symptom may be, and are convinced that they have, or are about to be diagnosed with a serious illness. Hypochondriacs often feel immense stress and anxiety, as well as raised blood pressure, when they are at a doctors or medical centre, this condition is known as “White Coat Syndrome” People with Hypochondria are often able to acknowledge that their fears are unrealistic, but this realisation is not enough to reduce their anxiety.

Symptoms and features Having long term intense fear or anxiety about having a serious disease or health condition. Worrying that minor symptoms or bodily sensations mean you have a serious illness. Seeing doctors repeated times or having involved medical exams such as MRI’s. Obsessively doing health research. Self diagnosing. Thinking you have a disease after hearing about it

Onset Hypochondriasis may begin to form in teenage years to older years . The peak of the onset is twenties to thirties. Witnessing someone else suffer or die of a disease can trigger hypochondria in a person. Sometimes a serious illness in the patients own life may also trigger hypochondria.

duration Hypochondria is a chronic (long lasting) condition that can begin at any time of ones life. It tends to last longer in people where their symptoms are severe or if the person has any other psychiatric needs.

Incidence/prevalence According to Suzan Feinstein (PhD) and Brian Fallon (MD, MPH), women are 3-4 times more likely to have Hypochondria than men. However, there are reports that there is equal incidence of Hypochondriasis in both men and women. Studies have shown that 3% of people who visit medical centres have Hypochondria.

Risk factors Having a serious illness during childhood. Knowing family members or others with a serious disease. The death of a loved one. Having close family members with hypochondria. Having parents who were neglectful or abusive.

Treatment Psychological counselling (Psychotherapy) is a cognitive and behavioural therapy which is the primary treatment for hypochondria and may also be the most effective. It helps people recognise and understand their behaviours. May include exposure therapy which is where you directly confront health fears in a safe environment and learn how to cope with them. Education about Hypochondria (Psychoeducation) is counselling that helps you and your family better understand Hypochondria and how to cope with it. Medications such as certain anti-depressant medication may be useful in the treatment of Hypochondria.

Diagnosis A person must have Hypochondriac symptoms for at least 6 months before they can be diagnosed. To be diagnosed with Hypochondria, a doctor will ask you a number of questions and possibly give you a questionnaire to complete.

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