Somatization can be simply defined as the manifestation of psychological distress and tension that cannot be expressed verbally, showing itself in the form of physical pain. The condition where a person has various physical complaints, but detailed examinations and tests do not indicate any physical illness is called somatization disorder.
This issue, which is more commonly seen in women and can last for several years or more, is also known as somatization disorder. For this diagnosis to be made, the person's complaints must have started before the age of 30. Additionally, the following 4 findings must be present:
*At least 2 findings related to the gastrointestinal system (such as nausea, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea).
*Pain in at least 4 different parts of the body that cannot be explained by another disease.
*A neurological finding.
*A sexual dysfunction.
Individuals experiencing somatization disorder have normal results from medical tests, or the symptoms cannot be explained. The person is concerned about their health because they have physical discomfort, but what it is remains unclear. The physical pains that people experiencing this issue describe are real and resemble the symptoms of certain diseases. However, none can be associated with a physical illness.
The prevalence of the problem in the general population is between 0.1% and 0.5%. Women with low education and socio-economic status are more likely to develop a type of somatoform disorder known as somatization disorder. It is less common in men, but generally shows a more dramatic course.
There can be various causes of somatization disorder. A few examples include:
*An unresolved trauma experienced in the past or recently can lead to a significant accumulation of stress in the brain, which can manifest as physical pain.
*An underlying psychological disorder may present itself in this way.
*A person exposed to excessive stress may direct their inability to cope with stressors to different parts of the body.
*A person who becomes withdrawn due to depression and constantly listens to themselves may feel pains not related to a physical illness due to increased sensitivity to their body.
The goal of treatment for the disease is to enable the individual to lead as normal a life as possible despite their pains and other symptoms. If an underlying psychological disorder or a traumatic event is observed, treatment for that is pursued. Medication is often not applied, but may be deemed necessary in some cases.
Those affected by this problem may complain of a wide variety of pains and physical issues. In addition to the following symptoms, different complaints may also be observed.
*Disruption in gastrointestinal movements, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea.
*Cramps in different areas of the body.
*Sexual dysfunctions (such as loss of sexual desire, painful menstruation in women, menstrual irregularities, erectile and ejaculation problems in men).
*Headaches.
*Abdominal pains.
*Disruption in the senses of taste and eating.
*Joint pain, back pain.
*Muscle spasms in the hands and legs.
*Severe pain that shifts to different locations continuously.
*Chest pain.
Practical Information for Parents
