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What is Illness Anxiety Disorder?

Illness anxiety disorder (IAD), formerly known as hypochondriasis, is excessive worrying about having a serious undiagnosed medical illness. People with IAD obsessively focus on normal body symptoms and sensations, interpreting them as signs of a catastrophic disease. Even after medical testing and reassurance, they remain fearful and anxious about their health.

IAD causes extreme distress and interferes with daily functioning and relationships. Sufferers constantly check their bodies for signs of illness and repeatedly seek reassurance from friends, family, and healthcare providers. They research their “symptoms” excessively online and avoid situations where they can’t get immediate medical care. IAD affects approximately 5% of people and is equally common in men and women.

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Treatments

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Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the main treatment for IAD, helping people identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviours. Exposure therapy can help patients face avoided situations. Anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications may also help manage severe anxiety. Support groups provide help to others facing similar struggles.

Endless checks

A hallmark of IAD is constantly checking the body for anything potentially wrong and repeatedly seeking medical tests or scans. Sufferers check for physical signs like lumps, moles, or pain. They monitor for symptoms like fatigue or racing heartbeat. They compulsively research diseases and obsessively examine themselves. Even normal test results bring only temporary relief before worries return. CBT and exposure therapy can help reduce endless checks and teach healthier ways of coping with health anxiety.
The key to overcoming IAD is learning to accept uncertainty about one’s health. Challenging anxious thinking patterns and developing healthy behaviours ultimately reduce fear and worry. With proper treatment, those suffering can regain trust in their body and medical providers.