Overview

Hypochondriasis (or hypochondria, sometimes referred to as health phobia) refers to an excessive preoccupation or worry about having a serious illness. Often, hypochondria persists even after a physician has evaluated a person and reassured him/her that his/her concerns about symptoms do not have an underlying medical basis or, if there is a medical illness, the concerns are far in excess of what is appropriate for the level of disease. Many people suffering from this disorder focus on a particular symptom as the catalyst of their worrying, such as gastro-intestinal problems, palpitations, or muscle fatigue.

Hypochondria is often characterized by fears that minor bodily symptoms may indicate a serious illness, constant self-examination and self-diagnosis, and a preoccupation with one's body. Many individuals with hypochondriasis express doubt and disbelief in the doctors' diagnosis, and report that doctors’ reassurance about an absence of a serious medical condition is unconvincing, or un-lasting. Many hypochondriacs require constant reassurance, either from doctors, family, or friends, and the disorder can become a disabling torment for the individual with hypochondriasis, as well as his or her family and friends. Some hypochondriacal individuals are completely avoidant of any reminder of illness, whereas others are frequent visitors of doctors’ offices. Other hypochondriacs will never speak about their terror, convinced that their fear of having a serious illness will not be taken seriously by those in whom they confide.

Munchausen Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms, Information with Treatment

Posted by glos Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 2:24 PM

Munchausen Syndrome is distinct from hypochondria in that the patient is aware that he is exaggerating, while sufferers of hypochondria actually believe they have a disease. Munchausen Syndrome is currently a topic of intense interest. People with this syndrome deliberately produce or exaggerate symptoms in several ways. They might lie about or fake symptoms, hurt themselves to bring on symptoms, or alter diagnostic tests (such as contaminating a urine sample). Signs of Munchausen syndrome include is dramatic but inconsistent medical history.

Presence of symptoms only when the patient is alone or not being observed and willingness or eagerness to have medical tests. The most cause of Munchausen syndrome is biological, psychological factors and personality disorders. Munchausen syndrome afflicts the patient who presents with the complaint. Munchausen syndrome by proxy involves inflicting injury on a child or other dependent person in order to simulate symptoms. Treatment of Munchausen syndrome is often difficult, and there are no standard treatments for the condition. Treatment generally includes psychotherapy and behavior counseling.

Causes of Munchausen Syndrome

Common causes and Risk factors of Munchausen Syndrome

Biological factors.

Psychological factors.

A history of abuse or neglect as a child.

Personality disorders.

Signs and Symptoms of Munchausen Syndrome

Common Sign and Symptoms of Munchausen Syndrome

Vague.

Sleep apnea.

Fever.

Vomiting.

Poorly formed identity and severe problems with self-esteem.

Dramatic stories about numerous medical problems.

Treatment of Munchausen Syndrome

Common Treatment of Munchausen Syndrome

Nonconfrontational intervention may help people with Munchausen.

Treatment generally includes psychotherapy and behavior counseling. If possible, family therapy also may be suggested.

Monitor ongoing medical care usage by involving people or institutions outside the medical practice to alert the physician gatekeeper about health care issues.

Medications may be used to treat other mental disorders that are also present, such as depression or anxiety.



Autor: Juliet Cohen

Juliet Cohen writes articles on diseases and conditions and skin disorders. She also writes articles on herbal home remedies.


Added: May 23, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

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