Overview
Health anxiety can take up a great deal of time and cause real distress. It is treatable with talking therapies and sometimes medicines.
Symptoms
- Constant worry about having a serious illness
- Frequently checking the body for signs of illness
- Repeatedly seeking reassurance or tests
- Avoiding health information or medical care because of fear
- Anxiety that affects work and relationships
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include anxiety or depression, a past serious illness, experiences of illness in the family and stressful life events.
Diagnosis
A doctor or psychiatrist makes the diagnosis after checking for physical illness and discussing symptoms.
Treatment
Cognitive behavioural therapy is very effective. Antidepressant medicines may help. A regular, planned review with one doctor can reduce repeated testing.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if health worries are taking over your life.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
