This term is used to describe a person who constantly thinks that they are ill, without having any actual physical illness. It is most common in people between the ages of twenty to thirty and is common in people who may have suffered with a childhood illness.

If you have hypochondriasis you may invent symptoms or exaggerate a minor ailment such as a headache until you believe that you have something more serious.

You may visit your Doctor more often than other people because you believe that you are ill. You may not believe results of investigations to prove that you do not have a physical illness and you may continue to believe that you are seriously ill.
You may have problems with your work, social, family relationships as hypochondriasis can cause undue stress to the affected person and those around you.

Doctor who suspects that you may have hypochondriasis will treat any underlying psychological disorders e.g. if depression is the underlying cause the GP may prescribe anti-depressants. Your GP may refer you for counselling or to a psychiatrist or for behavioural therapy.


Written by Medpages Editorial Team
Last Editorial Review: 15/1/2010