Somatic system disorders are diagnosed in patients that have an overwhelming urge to focus on physical symptoms like pain, shortness of breath, or even weakness. This awareness results in distress and problems with engaging in daily activities for people who suffer from this condition. The physical symptoms experienced by patients with this disorder might not have anything to do with the actual illness that is related to the physical body.
In some cases, this diagnosis is provided to patients who do not display any physical symptoms connected with the feelings and sensations that they are communicating to a doctor.
Symptoms related to this condition can vary from patient to patient. There is also a spectrum of severity that can be associated with the symptoms linked to this disorder. Patients with somatic system disorders might experience:
The precise causes of this condition are not well known. Family influences, such as genetics, or environmental conditions, might come into play in some cases. Biological factors like increased sensitivity to pain or sensation might be a cause of this condition. Decreased ability to handle emotions related to the physical self or to health can also be a factor. In some cases, these behaviours might also be learned from other people in the family.
The risk factors associated with this condition are:
Impulse Control & Addiction Disorders
Impulse Control & Addiction Disorder Medications
Personality Disorder Treatment
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment
Somatic System Disorder Treatment
Diagnosis of this condition can be complicated by various factors. Some patients might not have clear symptoms related to this condition or other physical reasons for their expressed symptoms. Doctors might need to work with mental health care professionals to get an accurate diagnosis for these patients. A physical exam and a full health history will usually be taken by your primary care doctor, followed by a referral to a mental health professional.
Prevention of this condition is not usually possible. This is a mental health condition that is not fully understood, and this means that there is no clear causal link between specific experiences or health conditions and this mental health problem.
Treatment of somatic system disorders is usually done with the help of a cognitive behavioural therapist (CBT) or a psychologist. CBT will help patients to control their emotions about their well-being and to improve their thinking processes surrounding their health. If the patient has pre-existing health challenges that are comorbidities for this mental health issue, a patient’s primary care doctor or other specialty doctors can work with the mental health team to create a well-rounded plan of care.
Treatment of this kind of condition will often require some trial and error to see if mood stabilisers, serotonin replacers, or other medications can help to improve symptoms. Changes in lifestyle and outlook are often the main goal when it comes to controlling the symptoms of this mental health disorder.