Psychosomatic Symptoms are physical symptoms that arise or worsen due to psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or trauma, rather than a purely organic or medical cause. The distress is real, though medical evaluations may not explain it fully.
Key Points:
- Common Presentations: Headaches, gastrointestinal problems, chronic pain, fatigue, or palpitations with no clear medical origin.
- Mechanism: Emotional stress can manifest in bodily ways—altering hormone levels, muscle tension, and pain perception.
- Stigma: Patients might feel invalidated if told symptoms are “all in the head.” A holistic approach acknowledges both mind and body.
- Interventions: Stress management, therapy (e.g., CBT), relaxation techniques, and, where applicable, addressing underlying depression or anxiety.
