Psychosomatic manifestation refers to physical symptoms that arise from psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or emotional conflicts. In these conditions, no underlying organic disease is found, but the symptoms are real and can significantly impact a person’s well-being. The mind and body are closely connected, and mental distress can manifest as bodily dysfunction.
Types of Psychosomatic Disorders
- Gastrointestinal
Disorders – Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcers, nausea, vomiting.
- Cardiovascular
Disorders – Hypertension, palpitations, heart disease linked to stress.
- Respiratory
Disorders – Asthma, hyperventilation syndrome.
- Neurological
Disorders – Chronic headaches, migraines, tension headaches.
- Musculoskeletal
Disorders – Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, body aches.
- Skin
Disorders – Psoriasis, eczema, acne, stress-induced rashes.
- Endocrine
Disorders – Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction linked to chronic stress.
- Genitourinary
Disorders – Menstrual irregularities, sexual dysfunction due to anxiety.
Theories of Psychosomatic
Manifestations
- Freud’s
Psychoanalytic Theory – Repressed emotions and
unconscious conflicts manifest as physical symptoms.
- Stress
Theory (Hans Selye) – Chronic stress leads to
physical illness by disrupting homeostasis.
- Biopsychosocial
Model – Interaction between biological, psychological, and social
factors influences health.
- Cognitive-Behavioral
Theory – Negative thought patterns and emotional distress contribute to
physical symptoms.
Causes of Psychosomatic Disorders
- Chronic
Stress & Anxiety – Prolonged exposure to stress
triggers physical symptoms.
- Depression
& Emotional Suppression – Unresolved emotions may
manifest in the body.
- Personality
Traits – Perfectionists and highly sensitive individuals are more prone.
- Traumatic
Experiences – Past trauma can lead to psychosomatic illnesses.
- Social
& Environmental Factors – Work pressure,
relationship conflicts, financial stress.
Clinical Features, Signs &
Symptoms
- Persistent
physical complaints without a clear medical cause.
- Pain,
fatigue, and digestive disturbances.
- Heart
palpitations, breathlessness, or dizziness.
- Worsening
symptoms during emotional distress.
- Frequent
doctor visits with no definitive diagnosis.
Investigations
- Psychological
Evaluation – Assessing stress, anxiety, and emotional health.
- Blood
Tests & Imaging (MRI, CT Scan, ECG) – To rule out organic
disease.
- Autonomic
Function Tests – Checking for stress-related changes in heart rate and blood
pressure.
- Hormonal
Analysis – Cortisol levels to assess stress response.
Treatment & Management
- Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps manage stress and
change thought patterns.
- Relaxation
Techniques – Meditation, deep breathing, yoga.
- Lifestyle
Modifications – Regular exercise, healthy diet, adequate sleep.
- Psychotherapy
& Counseling – To address underlying emotional issues.
- Medications –
Antidepressants, anxiolytics in severe cases.
Homeopathic Remedies
- Ignatia
Amara – Psychosomatic symptoms after grief or emotional shock.
- Natrum
Muriaticum – Suppressed emotions leading to physical complaints.
- Kali
Phosphoricum – Fatigue, weakness, and nervous exhaustion due to stress.
- Staphysagria –
Physical symptoms from suppressed anger and humiliation.
- Aurum
Metallicum – Depression-related physical ailments, heart palpitations.