Hypochondriac definition and symptoms

Hypochondriac definition and symptomsHypochondriasis definition: is a disorder in which one is preoccupied with bodily functions and fears of acquiring or having a serious disease based on misinterpretation of physical symptoms of the body. The symptoms associated with a hypochondriac are: The physical symptoms the majority of the time that might be misinterpreted by a hypochondriac include borborygmi, abdominal bloating cardiac awareness, and some times a form of a crampy discomfort felt in the stomach, sweating and a general sense of impending doom may also be associated with the condition. The location or region, the quality and duration of such symptoms are often described by hypochondriacs in minute detail. The trick is to distinguish the pattern of progression of the symptoms. Most of the times the symptoms do not follow a recognizable pattern of organic dysfunction and are generally not associated with abnormal physical findings. Examination and reassurance by a physician generally do not relieve the concerns of the patient, who tends to believe that the physician has failed to find the real cause. These symptoms adversely affect ones social and occupational functioning and cause significant distress. A definitive diagnosis is suggested by the history and examination and confirmed when symptoms persist for a period of about or more than six months, and cannot be attributed to depression or any other form of psychiatric disorder.The prognosis and treatment for people suffering from hypochondriasis entails: firstly realizing the fact that the course of the disorder is chronic, sometimes fluctuating when the patient does not exhibit any symptoms but mostly steady. Perhaps 5% of patients recover permanently. Depression combined with hypochondriacally complaints presages a poor prognosis for recovery from the depression associated with the condition. Treatment is difficult at the best of times. This is mainly because in the patients psyche he has convinced him or herself that something is seriously wrong and if not treated correctly death is eminent. For this reason you will find that most hypochondriacs go doctor hopping. Generally reassurances work best and if a trusting relationship with a physician is developed it is very beneficial, especially if the regular hospital or office visits inspire reassurance in the patient. After a physician has excluded a physical disorder, the patient may begin to feel better and symptoms might fade intermittently. When psychological distressing situation has preceded symptom onset and if the symptoms are not adequately relieved, the patient may benefit from a psychiatric referral for further evaluation and treatment, while continuing under the care of the primary physician. Medical or pharmaceutical treatment have been tried but have been mostly ineffective as there is actually no underlying disease. Placebos work to halt the symptoms intermittently, but can’t cure the patient’s obsession with disease. Some have even propagated hypnosis as an effective treatment in which discussions continue with the patient once he or she is fully aware and some sort of behavior modification therapy, including relaxation training can be effective in some patients. However further research and concrete clinical proof has yet not been provided.