Hypochondriac Definition
A hypochondriac is an individual who suffers with hypochondria, a condition referred to as hypochondriasis. Hypochondria is a state of excessive worry that symptoms indicate you have a serious health problem in the absence of any real evidence. Those with hypochondriasis are obsessed with the health of their body. As a result, their preoccupation causes significant anxiety.
Hypochondriacs tend to focus on symptoms, which in turn intensifies their anxiety. This intense anxiety can actually elevate the symptom believed to support their illness, such as rapid heart beat, palpitations, excessive sweating, muscle fatigue and stomach upset.
Hypochondriacs fail to appreciate that good health does not equate to never experiencing any symptoms or unusual sensations. With hypochondria the idea something is seriously wrong overrides this reality.
Those with hypochondriasis often have other psychological disorders, like depression, general anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder or phobias.
Hypochondria Symptoms
Symptoms of hypochondria include:
- obsessively researching about health
- worrying over minor symptoms or sensations
- repeatedly seeing their health care professional
- often examining their body or checking vital signs
- always talking about symptoms or their self diagnosed disease
- lasting intense fear or anxiety about having a serious health condition
Hypochondriacs may realize that these symptoms are unreasonable, but stopping their cycle of distress is difficult.
Hypochondriasis Treatment
Hypochondriasis is a chronic condition that often requires treatment to relieve symptoms. Treating hypochondria usually involves psychotherapy to help stop behaviors that elevate anxiety, as well as learning to cope with normal bodily sensations and health concerns.
SSRIs and other antidepressant drugs can be helpful because they act on neurotransmitter levels. This action can reduce the mental and physical symptoms of hypochondria.