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PSYCHOSOMATIC DISORDERS

What is a Psychosomatic Disorder ?

All illnesses can be considered to be psychosomatic. That is, they inevitably involve the mind's reaction (psyche) to a physical (soma) illness. However, in some illnesses, psychological factors seem to play a particularly important part. They can influence not only the cause of the illness, but can also worsen the symptoms and affect the course of the disorder. It is these illnesses that are termed psychosomatic disorders. Because psychological factors are important in every illness, there is lack of agreement as to what should be considered as a psychosomatic disorder. Many doctors believe that illnesses such as duodenal ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, bronchial asthma, eczema, psoriasis, high blood pressure and heart attacks are strongly influenced by psychological factors. Sometimes psychological factors can cause ill health without actually causing a disease. As a result of unhappiness, anxiety or stress due to personal problems, physical symptoms may develop. We are all familiar with the headache that develops as a result of stress. Similarly, other physical symptoms can develop. These include nausea, abdominal pain and chest pain, breathlessness, diarrhoea and giddiness and muscle pains.

How does a Psychosomatic Disorder occur ?

Illness can be due to many factors. It can occur as a result of social or environmental factors. It may also happen as a result of genetic or hereditary reasons: a tendency for a certain condition to run in families. Some families also tend to suppress feelings: any emotion then tends to be expressed by physical symptoms. Children can learn this behaviour which may continue to adult life. Some people think that it is our personality that is a major factor in determining which illness we develop. For example, people with what is known as Type A personality tend to be ambitious, impatient, and set themselves high standards. They seem more likely to develop heart attacks. Quiet, introverted individuals, who tend to conceal their feelings and fears and to suppress emotions, may be more likely to develop cancers.

Why does a Psychosomatic Disorder occur ?

Why the illness occurs at a particular time is often a mystery. It could be that a combination of the factors mentioned above triggers off the illness. Should there be untoward stress due to personal problems at home or at work, or a bereavement, then an illness may result. We know for instance that certain life events such as moving house, getting divorced or suffering a bereavement can precipitate physical illnesses. Similarly, an existing illness may worsen as a result of these stresses.

Treatment Involved for a Psychosomatic Disorder

Increasingly doctors are recognizing the importance of dealing with psychological and social factors in relation to physical disease. As a result, many doctors now try to deal with the whole person. This means taking all these factors into consideration. By doing this, it is important to realize that the doctor is not playing down or ignoring the physical disease. Many people with so-called psychosomatic disorders feel that their doctor does not take them seriously. They feel that the doctor believes that it's all in the mind . The doctor will always attempt to treat the physical illness with appropriate medical treatment if necessary. But he will also be interested to understand more about the person who has the illness. This will in turn help him and the patient to understand the illness better. Sometimes psychotherapy or talking treatment can help. Patients are given the opportunity and time to talk about their feelings and emotions. This will help provide them with an insight into themselves and help them understand their illness better. Sometimes it is helpful to look at the whole lifestyle of the person involved. This may require looking at how the stress is dealt with, teaching techniques for stress management, as well as examining factors such as diet and exercise.

During Treatment for a Psychosomatic Disorder

There are no particular side-effects from this sort of treatment.

After Treatment for a Psychosomatic Disorder

The reasons that the illness arose are often complex and not easy to deal with. They can be confusing for the doctor as well as the patient. Time is required to allow understanding if healing is to take place. There is no quick and easy answer. During the course of the psychotherapy, sometimes the patient may feel that he is not being understood. It is important to share these feelings with the therapist or doctor.

If a Psychosomatic Disorder is Left Untreated

This depends on the illness, its degree of severity and the possible causes. Psychosomatic symptoms not amounting to a physical disease may improve by themselves. Many psychosomatic disorders, however, are chronic, and tend to wax and wane.

Effects on Family of a Psychosomatic Disorder

People with psychosomatic disorders need the support and understanding of their family and friends. No special expertise is required. A person who will listen and provide support at times of crisis is all that is required.