Illness: Is it All in Your Head?

Famed billionaire Howard Hughes was so frightened by germs and illness that he wouldn't shake hands with anyone. His staff included several doctors.

Hughes suffered from hypochondria, a disorder that causes people to worry about illness. Think of it as a health-related panic attack. Every twitch causes you concern. Is that pimple really skin cancer? Are you tired because your heart is failing? If you have no symptoms, you live in fear of catching something.

If you have hypochondria, you don't fake your symptoms, but you do think the worst. While most people ignore a cough, you may wonder if it's lung cancer and ask for an x-ray. Even after a doctor confirms that nothing is wrong, you can't let go of the fear. You may ask for a biopsy or a second x-ray. You may look for "a better doctor" who will find something wrong and understand your worries.

Although the symptoms are real, hypochondria is a mental illness. Two-thirds of those who have hypochondria also have depression or anxiety. Anxiety, in fact, could be causing symptoms like increased heart rates, chest tightness, muscle aches or nausea. Depression - or even boredom - could be the reason for fatigue or weight change.

It's estimated that 5 percent of Americans have hypochondria. It usually begins in young adulthood. It is sometimes brought on by a loss or hearing about another's sickness. If the person had a serious childhood illness or a parent who overreacted to illness, this could also be a factor.

What, me worry?
We laugh in the movies when Woody Allen is convinced his headache is a brain tumor. Behind every hypochondriac, though, is a terrified, unhappy person. Their fears interfere with their work and social life. Their constant talk about symptoms alienates family and friends. They become angry and frustrated when people don't take their concerns seriously or suggest counseling.

Hypochondria is treatable. Between 70 percent and 80 percent of people who have it benefit from antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs. In addition to helping depression or anxiety, these medications can help the stomach distress triggered by nerves.

Therapy is also helpful. It can help you change your thinking and behavior patterns. You can learn to cope with your symptoms and your fears. You'll learn to:

• Stop researching diseases and looking up symptoms.
• Stop reading obituaries or articles about overlooked diseases.
• Distract yourself with other activities when worry sets in.
• Stop constantly checking your vital signs.
• Learn why many symptoms are harmless.
• Keep journals to record what causes your panic.
• Relax. Deep breathing and meditation can ease your anxiety.

If you have hypochondria, stick with one doctor with whom you can build a relationship. Seeing many doctors can lead to more anxiety.

Related Articles Types of Psychotherapy Antianxiety Medications Antidepressant Medications

External Sources The Cleveland Clinic. Hypochondriasis. Accessed March 21, 2007. Columbia University Medical Center/New York State Psychiatric Institute. Frequently asked questions. Accessed March 21, 2007. CBS News. Promising hypochondria treatment. Accessed March 21, 2007. ABC News. Experts say hypochondria is real. Accessed March 21, 2007.

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