5. Somatisation Flashcards
1
Q
How common is it?
A
Common - up to 20%
2
Q
Who does it affect?
A
Young / middle aged patients
3
Q
What causes it?
A
Bio = increased amygdala activity, physical signs Psycho = ACE / trauma, health beliefs Social = lack of support, 'the sick role'
4
Q
What risk factors are there?
A
Existing physical or mental health disorders
Adverse life events
Family history
5
Q
How does it present?
A
Range of presentations
Often extreme
Depression / anxiety
Common symptoms are pain and fatigue
6
Q
What other conditions might present similarly?
A
IBD
Neurological conditions
Endocrine disorders
7
Q
How would you investigate?
A
Rule out suspected conditions
8
Q
What treatments are there?
A
Symptom management EXPLANATION Minimise iatrogenic harm Treat underlying cause eg depression Physio, CBT, OT
9
Q
What complications are there?
A
Severe depression
Suicidal ideation
Profound disability
