Characterized by disease conviction, a preoccupation with fears of having a serious disease that persists despite medical evaluation and reassurance.
Fears are based on misinterpretation of bodily sensations.
Associated with behaviors such as frequent visits to physicians, shopping for doctors, medical research, and checking the body.
Symptoms typically occur following stress, illness, or loss.
Maybe associated with mood or personality disorders.
A somatic symptoms disorder has classified under DSM-5 criteria.
Results in distressing or significant disruption of daily life.
Excessive thoughts and feelings or behaviors related to somatic symptoms or to associated health concerns with disproportionate persistent thoughts about the seriousness of one symptoms.
Persistent high level of anxiety about health or health symptoms and the devotion of excessive time and energy to health concerns.
Typically the state of being symptomatic is persistent for more than six months.