Fear of diseases (hypochondriasis)

We have all experienced having pain and physical symptoms when we are stressed or worried. Everyone has also experienced how it no longer hurts if we become very preoccupied with other things. Physical sensations can also come and go depending on how we feel mentally. They are not a sign of a serious physical disease but you can still become very worried about being seriously ill.

Hypochondriasis and physical symptoms that are not caused by a disease are widespread. It is well-known amongst physicians that we got one symptom after another during our time in medical school. We got them each time we learned about a new disease.

In some mental diseases you exclusively get physical symptoms. Even though you are examined thoroughly, your symptoms cannot be explained by saying that you suffer from a physical disease.

You may be worried about suffering from something serious but apart from that you don't feel anxious or depressed.

Hypochondriasis can be treated effectively with psychotherapy and medicine.