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Somatoform Disorder is a chronic disease which generally occurs after people reach the age of 30 years. In this mental illness the person feels bodily symptoms like pain or ache in more than one part of body, this pain or ache has no physical medical reason.
This condition creates a cycle of pain and worry, which is hard to break.
It has been observed in many cases that people with sexual and physical abuse history have more chances to have this disorder.
It is not caused by substance or alcohol abuse.
Somatoform Disorder symptoms should be lasting for a minimum period of 6 months to be treated under the category of somatoform disorder.
FACTS
women have 10 times more risk of developing Somatoform Disorder.
SYMPTOMS
- Headache
- Impotency
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Amnesia
- Pain during urination
- Painful menstruation
- Pain during intercourse
- Joint pain
- Diarrhea
- Vision changes
- paralysis
CASE STUDIES
Mr R S C, 32 a government peon complained of chronic chest pain, nausea and severe back pain, which have been persistent for over a year. His medical history indicates these problems have persisted for more than 5 years and occasional stomach infection to accompany them. But over the past 1 year, his problems have become more persistent and severe; he has been on and off medications for a very long period of time. His current mind frame indicates towards low levels of motivation and lack of zest for life. R’s work has been hit seriously as he has been unable to work in the past few months. He has undergone several medical tests on recommendation of doctor’s, but the root cause for his medical condition still has not been found. He is unmarried and has little interest in sexual activity. He lives with his father and as a result of his medical problems and expenses attached to them; they are facing a severe financial crunch.
