Hypochondriasis

Alternative names:

hypochondria; hypochondriacal neurosis

Definition:

A belief that real or imagined physical symptoms are signs of a serious illness despite medical reassurance that they are not.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A person suffering form hypochondriasis is preoccupied with physical health despite medical reassurance and the lack of physical findings. There is an unrealistic fear of serious disease. There is no specific cause of hypochondriasis, but it frequently develops in people or relatives of those who have had a disease. The duration of this disorder is usually 6 months or longer. Frequent appointments with health care providers are typical, and time from work may be lost. It occurs in men and women with equal frequency.