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Somatoform Disorders / Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders

Somatoform Disorders - Frequenty Asked Questions


Q: Which specialist should I consult for somatoform disorder?

A: Usually your first visit will be to the general practitioner (GP) or your family doctor. After several tests and referrals, you may be referred to a mental health professional for further evaluation and management.

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Q: What is somatoform autonomic dysfunction?

A: Somatoform autonomic dysfunction is said to occur when the symptoms affecting the patient are predominantly of an autonomic system derangement, such as sweating, flushing, palpitations, diarrhea, hyperventilation, fainting or blood pressure fluctuations.

Q: What is a psychosomatic illness?

A: Illnesses that are made worse by mental or emotional factors such as anxiety and stress are termed psychosomatic diseases. Examples include peptic ulcer, high blood pressure, psoriasis and eczema.

Q: How can mental problems cause physical symptoms?

A: Although body and mind are two separate entities, they in fact work together and influence each other. For example, feeling worried or anxious can cause an uncomfortable feeling of "butterflies in the stomach”. Similarly, chronic stress is known to cause heart attacks. Impulses from the brain travel down the nerves to different parts of the body, and from the body to the brain, where they are perceived as sensations.

In addition, natural chemicals, called "hormones", circulate in the blood. Some are produced by the body and influence the brain while some are made in the brain and affect the way the body functions.

Q: What is the longterm outlook for somatoform disorders?

A: These disorders vary greatly in severity and duration. The outlook is better if treatment is sought earlier. Most patients become better and their quality of life improves gradually with psychotherapy and medications. Typically somatoform disorders are not life threatening and do not shorten life.

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