Briquet's syndrome
Key points
- Somatization disorder is a chronic condition in which there are numerous physical complaints - lasting for years and resulting in substantial impairment - that are caused by psychological problems and for which no underlying physical problem can be identified.
- The disorder is marked by multiple physical complaints that persist for years involving any body system.
- It is important to note that many of these symptoms also occur from physical, medical disorders.
- Once other causes have been ruled out and a diagnosis of somatization disorder is secured, the goal of treatment is to help the person learn to control the symptoms.
Alternative names
Somatization disorder
Definition
Somatization disorder is a chronic condition in which there are numerous physical complaints - lasting for years and resulting in substantial impairment - that are caused by psychological problems and for which no underlying physical problem can be identified.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The disorder is marked by multiple physical complaints that persist for years involving any body system. Most frequently, the complaints involve chronic pain and problems with the digestive system, the nervous system, and the reproductive system. The disorder usually begins before the age of 30 and occurs more often in women.
Somatization disorder is highly stigmatized and patients are often dismissed by their physicians as having problems that are "all in your head." However, as researchers study the connections between the brain, the digestive system, and the immune system, somatization disorders are becoming better understood and should not be seen as "faked" conditions which the patient could end if he or she chose to do so.
The symptoms are generally severe enough to interfere with work and relationships and lead the person to visit the doctor and even take medication. A lifelong history of "sickliness" is often present. However, despite thorough investigation, no specific underlying physical cause is ever identified to account for the symptoms. Stress often worsens symptoms.
Symptoms
Some of the numerous symptoms that can occur with somatization disorder include:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Pain in the legs or arms
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Pain during urination
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Amnesia
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vision changes
- Paralysis or muscle weakness
- Sexual apathy
- Pain during intercourse
- Impotence
- Painful menstruation
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
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