About this topic
Somatization disorder is a condition where a person has physical signs in more than one body part. These signs cannot be traced to a physical cause. The signs are real. They can cause stress and problems in everyday life. Many doctors now see a link between emotional stress and other physical problems, such as pain. Often, people with this problem are very worried about their health. This may happen if doctors are not able to find an exact physical problem that is causing the signs. ‚
What are the causes?
The exact cause of this condition is not known. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- More common in women
- Before age 30
- Having irritable bowel syndrome
- Having chronic pain
- Having a history of sex abuse
What are the main signs?
- Pain in the back, belly, or chest. Pain may also be in the arms, legs, or joints. You may have pain when you pass urine or have a period.
- Digestive problems like bloating, upset stomach, throwing up, or hard stools
- Sex problems like a low sex drive or avoiding sex. Men may have problems getting an erection. There may be pain when having sex.
- Neurological problems like memory loss, headaches, weakness, or dizziness
- Being tired
- Heart pounding or racing
- Short of breath
- Eyesight problems
- Trouble swallowing
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will do an exam and take your history. The doctor will also ask questions about your signs. You may need to have tests based on the types of problems you are having. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will work to control the signs you are having. You may need to have regular checkups. Sometimes, your doctor may want you to go see a counselor. You may need to have: ‚
- A special type of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy that will try to:
- Figure out what makes the signs worse
- Deal with the signs
- Keep you active
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Treat anxiety or low mood
- Help with belly problems or loose stools
- Treat other signs
What problems could happen?
- Addiction to drugs for pain
- Isolation or pulling out of social activities
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Try to lower how much stress you have in your life. This may help with your signs. Exercise can help with stress. You may also want to try yoga, walking, or relaxation exercises. ‚
Helpful tips
Make sure you are comfortable with your regular doctor. Seeing too many doctors or specialists can cause problems. You may have too many tests that are not needed. This can cause you to have more stress and frustration. ‚
Where can I learn more?
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/somatoform-disorders.html ‚
U.S. National Library of Medicine ‚
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001951/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚