Overview
Illness anxiety disorder, formerly known as hypochondriasis, is a mental health condition where a person excessively worries about being or becoming seriously ill, even when there are no physical symptoms or a medical examination does not reveal any severe medical condition. People with illness anxiety disorder may experience extreme anxiety and distress, which can disrupt their daily lives and relationships. The condition can fluctuate in severity and may be associated with various complications such as relationship or family problems, work-related performance issues, difficulties in daily life, financial problems, and other mental health disorders. The risk factors for illness anxiety disorder may include major life stress, a history of abuse, a serious childhood illness or a parent with a serious illness, personality traits like being a worrier, and excessive health-related internet use.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of illness anxiety disorder include excessive worrying that you are or may become seriously ill, even when there are no physical symptoms or a medical examination does not reveal a serious medical condition. People with this disorder may experience extreme anxiety that normal body sensations or minor symptoms are indicative of a severe illness. The anxiety caused by this disorder can lead to severe distress and can disrupt daily life.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for illness anxiety disorder may include: a time of major life stress, threat of a serious illness that turns out not to be serious, history of abuse as a child, a serious childhood illness or a parent with a serious illness, personality traits such as having a tendency toward being a worrier, excessive health-related internet use, and having another mental health disorder such as somatic symptom disorder, other anxiety disorders, depression, or a personality disorder.
Development
Illness anxiety disorder, also known as hypochondria, can develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors for developing illness anxiety disorder may include experiencing a time of major life stress, having a history of abuse as a child, a serious childhood illness or a parent with a serious illness, excessive health-related internet use, and having certain personality traits, such as being a worrier. In some cases, illness anxiety disorder may be linked to an underlying medical condition or a side effect of certain medications. However, the exact cause of illness anxiety disorder can vary from person to person.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if illness anxiety disorder is suspected when:
- You feel like you're worrying too much and it's interfering with your work, relationships, or other aspects of your life.
- Your fear, worry, or anxiety is upsetting to you and difficult to control.
- You feel depressed, have trouble with alcohol or drug use, or have other mental health concerns along with anxiety. It's important to consult with your primary care provider, who may refer you to a mental health professional if necessary. Remember, seeking help for illness anxiety disorder is an important step towards managing and overcoming the condition.
Diagnosis
To diagnose illness anxiety disorder, the following steps are typically undertaken:
- Physical exam: A primary care provider will perform a physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the anxiety.
- Medical tests: If there is reason to believe an underlying medical condition is present, the provider may order blood or urine tests or other relevant tests.
- Detailed questioning: The provider will ask about symptoms, stressful situations, family history, fears, concerns, and the impact of anxiety on daily life.
- Psychological evaluation: The mental health professional may conduct a psychological evaluation or have the patient fill out a self-assessment or questionnaire to determine the severity of anxiety.
- DSM-5 criteria: The diagnosis will be based on the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association. Treatment for illness anxiety disorder often includes medication, such as antidepressants, and lifestyle changes. It's crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action and establish a regular visit schedule for ongoing support.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Illness anxiety disorder can lead to various complications in different aspects of an individual's life, including:
- Relationship or family problems: Excessive worrying can frustrate others and strain relationships.
- Work-related performance problems or excessive absences: Anxiety may affect an individual's ability to concentrate, leading to poor work performance or increased absenteeism.
- Problems functioning in daily life: Severe anxiety can make it difficult to carry out daily activities, potentially resulting in disability.
- Financial problems: Excessive healthcare visits and medical bills can lead to financial burden.
- Co-occurrence of other mental health disorders: Having another mental health disorder, such as somatic symptom disorder, other anxiety disorders, depression, or a personality disorder, is common in individuals with illness anxiety disorder.
Home Remedies
It is important to seek professional advice and follow a treatment plan for illness anxiety disorder. However, managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques may be helpful in coping with anxiety symptoms.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for illness anxiety disorder, you should make a list of your symptoms, including when they occur, how severe they are, and what makes them better or worse. Note any situations you've been avoiding due to your anxiety, and any key personal information, such as major life changes or stressors. Also, gather information about any other medical or mental health conditions you have, and list any medications, vitamins, herbs, or supplements you're taking, along with their dosages. It's helpful to bring a family member or friend along to the appointment for support, or to take notes during the visit. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider questions about your condition, such as the cause of your symptoms, possible alternatives, and the long-term outlook.