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Somatization Disorder - Somatization Disorder Symptom, Cause, Treatment
Somatization disorder is a chronic condition in which there are numerous physical complaints -- lasting for years and resulting in substantial impairment -- that are caused by psychological problems and for which no underlying physical problem can be identified. Individuals with somatization disorder claim to suffer constantly and for many years from many physical illnesses, yet they do not have any specific, diagnosed medical illnesses that can explain their symptoms. Still, these symptoms cause distress and negatively affect the individual's ability to function day to day.
Symptoms of Somatization Disorder
Some of the numerous symptoms that can occur with somatization disorder include:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Pain in the legs or arms
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Pain during urination, Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Amnesia
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vision changes
- Paralysis or muscle weakness, Sexual apathy
- Pain during intercourse
- Impotence
- Painful menstruation
- Irregular menstruation
- Excessive menstrual bleeding
Causes of Somatization Disorder
Somatization Disorder has multiple unexplained somatic (physical) complaints that occur in multiple areas of the body. There is no medical illness to explain the Stress symptoms and so the disorder is believed to be due to mental and emotional (a.k.a. psychological) causes. Most frequently, the complaints involve chronic pain and problems with the digestive system, the nervous system, and the reproductive system. The disorder is marked by multiple physical complaints that persist for years involving any body system. The cause is not specific but symptoms begin or worsen after losses (for example, job, close relative, or friend). A greater intensity of symptoms often occurs with stress. The symptoms are generally severe enough to interfere with work and relationships and lead the person to visit the doctor and even take medication. With fewer activities to distract them from their symptoms, they spend more time worrying about physical problems, resulting in greater distress and disabili
Treatment of Somatization Disorder
Here are some Treatment for Somatization Disorder
- A supportive relationship with a sympathetic health care provider is the most important aspect of treatment.
- Regularly scheduled appointments should be maintained to review symptoms and the person's coping mechanisms.
- People with a somatization disorder rarely acknowledge that their illness has a psychological component and will usually reject psychiatric treatment.
- It is important to have a long-term relationship with your doctor, who should be empathetic and caring about your issues.
- A psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or licensed counselor to figure out ways to deals with stressful or painful issues.
- People with somatization disorder may be keenly aware of the minor pains and discomforts that most people simply ignore.
Prevention tips
There are no known ways to prevent somatization disorder. To help reduce your chances of developing somatization disorder, take the following steps:
- Reduce the amount of stress in your life.
- Continue to be aware of your psychological or emotional health.
- Maintain an open and good relationship with your primary care doctor or healthcare provider.
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