A psychosomatic disorder is a physical condition caused or worsened by psychological factors. Symptoms can vary depending on the person but can include physical pain, nausea, hypertension, and more.
There can be many causes for psychosomatic disorders, including stress, anxiety, and depression. This article covers everything about Psychosomatic disorder, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is a Psychosomatic Disorder?
Psychosomatic disorder is a psychological disorder that involves the mind and body. Psychosomatic disorders are not diseases in the traditional sense, yet they have physical symptoms which can be extremely distressing to those who suffer from them.
In layman’s terms, a Psychosomatic disorder is a medical condition involving physical symptoms directly resulting from emotional or mental stress. This type of disorder is also known as somatoform disorder, somatization disorder, and conversion disorder.
This condition involves a relationship between mental and physical health, where certain mental events may cause physical symptoms. While these symptoms are not necessarily caused by an underlying medical condition, they may indicate a problem with your mental health or your emotional state.
Symptoms of psychosomatic disorder
The most common symptoms of the psychosomatic disorder are physical. This can include problems like headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue.
However, the disorder can also manifest itself in other ways. Some people may have trouble sleeping, while others may have difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
Other symptoms may include:
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Hypertension
- Fatigue
- Stomach ulcers
- Stomach issues such as indigestion
- Shortness of breath
- Psychosomatic pain such as headache or Muscle aches
- Dermatitis and Eczema
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. Psychosomatic disorder is a real condition that can be treated. With the help of a mental health professional, you can learn how to manage your symptoms and live a healthy and happy life.
Causes of psychosomatic disorders
Psychosomatic disorders differ from other disorders because they do not involve any physical disease or disease process. Instead, the symptoms are caused by psychological factors.
Psychosomatic diseases may be caused by:
– Fear and anxiety
This can be caused by trauma or abuse, but it can also occur when someone perceives an outside threat.
For example, if you live in a neighbourhood with high crime rates, you may begin to experience anxiety attacks or heart palpitations if you walk outside at night.
– Emotional stress
Some people develop physical symptoms when they have an emotional problem that has not been resolved through counselling or therapy.
For example, if you feel rejected by a loved one, your body will react by producing higher than normal levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenalin. This can lead to high blood pressure despite no physical illness being present.
Finally, there is no single cause of the psychosomatic disorder. Instead, it is thought to be caused by a combination of mental and physical factors. For example, someone may be more likely to develop the disorder if they have a history of anxiety or depression. Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, can also trigger the disorder.
Different types of psychosomatic disorders
There are many different types of psychosomatic disorders. They include:
– Depressive disorder
Depression causes changes in behaviour and mood that can affect how you feel physically as well as mentally. Depression can cause changes in appetite, sleep patterns, energy levels, motivation, and memory.
If left untreated, these changes can lead to other health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
– Anxiety disorder
Anxiety disorders involve feelings of unease that last for weeks or months at a time. These feelings may occur in response to situations or situations that may never actually happen (phobias).
Anxiety disorders are often associated with depression because they share similar symptoms, including irritability and low moods.
– Somatization disorder
Somatization disorder is a mental health condition that causes physical symptoms. These symptoms can be severe and can disrupt your daily life.
While there is no cure for somatization disorder, treatment can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Treatment options for psychosomatic disorders
There are many different treatment options for psychosomatic illness, for example:
– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their negative thinking and behaviour patterns. CBT usually takes place over several weeks or months, and people typically see a therapist for weekly sessions
– Antidepressant medication
Antidepressant medication is also used to treat major depressive disorder and can be an effective part of treatment. The antidepressant medication works by balancing chemicals in the brain and is generally taken for at least six weeks.
– Lifestyle changes
Certain lifestyle changes, such as practising meditation, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly, can help you manage the psychosomatic symptoms up to a great extent.
The vital bit is to find a treatment that works for your situation. Some people might need medication, while others may require therapy. If you are suffering from a psychosomatic disorder, it is important to seek help from a professional.
Conclusion
Psychosomatic diseases are those diseases where the symptoms originate in the patient’s mind. They are produced by mental processes and are not directly caused by a physical disorder. Therefore, it may be difficult for a person to accurately assess their illness, especially when there is a psychological component.
However, it is important to remember that psychosomatic disorders are treatable and shouldn’t be ignored or discounted. To avail of the best facilities, book an appointment at the Birla Fertility and IVF Clinic to get help today!
FAQs
1. What is a Psychosomatic disorder?
Psychosomatic disease is a mental disorder that manifests itself in physical symptoms. This can include problems like headaches, stomachaches, insomnia, and fatigue.
2. What are the four signs of Psychosomatic illness?
The four most common signs of a psychosomatic disease may include fatigue, high blood pressure, numbness, and heart palpitations.
3. What are the two types of Psychosomatic diseases?
The two types of Psychosomatic diseases include stress and anxiety disorder and pain disorder.
4. What are the causes of Psychosomatic disorder?
Psychosomatic illness is a medical condition that refers to the diseases and conditions that may be caused or exacerbated by psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or depression
5. Can a Psychosomatic illness be cured?
An individual can effectively manage a Psychosomatic illness with the help of a healthcare professional, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
