Do you constantly worry about your health or have a fear of sickness? Do you believe that every ache, pain or irregularity means something serious? If so, you may be experiencing hypochondria, also known as illness anxiety disorder or somatic symptom disorder. Hypochondria is a condition where individuals obsess over their health, continuously fearing that they have a serious illness despite medical reassurance.
If you think you may be a hypochondriac, then here are the ten major signs of hypochondria:.
1. Constant Worry About Health
The most significant sign of hypochondria is a persistent fear of developing a serious illness, which interferes with an individual’s ability to function normally.
2. Perpetual Checking-Up
Hypochondriacs frequently check themselves for symptoms, making frequent visits to doctors, and continually searching the internet for information about their ailments.
3. Overreaction to Minor Ailments
Hypochondriacs will obsess over minor aches and pains, fearing that they may be a sign of a more severe illness.
4. Self-Diagnosing
Hypochondriacs will try to diagnose themselves and will often argue with medical professionals about their diagnosis.
5. Misinterpretation of Normal Body Sensations
Hypochondriacs often misinterpret normal body sensations, such as a twitch, a muscle spasm or a cough as a sign of something severe.
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6. Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Hypochondriacs experience high levels of anxiety and panic attacks, leading to further physical symptoms such as chest pains, sweating and palpitations.
7. Avoidance of Healthcare Situations
Hypochondriacs often avoid healthcare situations such as doctor’s appointments or medical procedures because of their fear of being ill, or of being misdiagnosed by a medical professional.
8. Seeking Reassurance
Hypochondriacs constantly seek reassurance from family, friends and healthcare professionals about their health, but are never satisfied, leading to more anxiety and worry.
9. Excessive Use of the Internet for Health Research
Hypochondriacs spend excessive amounts of time searching the internet for health-related information, leading them to more anxiety and fear.
10. Feeling Dismissed by Healthcare Providers
Hypochondriacs often feel dismissed by healthcare providers if they are not given the desired diagnosis or treatment, leading to a mistrust of the medical profession.
Hypochondria can be a debilitating condition, leading to high levels of anxiety and fear that can impair an individual’s quality of life.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hypochondria, it is essential to seek professional help from a mental health provider.
