Illness Anxiety Disorder – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
To find out if someone has illness anxiety disorder or a related condition, a doctor usually starts with a physical exam and medical tests.
This helps make sure that there is not another health problem to treat. Doctors often limit the number of lab tests and scans to avoid unnecessary worry.
If no physical illness appears, the doctor may refer the person to a mental health professional. The evaluation can include:
- A discussion about symptoms, fears, and stress.
- Family history of anxiety disorders or other mental health conditions.
- Psychological self-assessment forms.
- Questions about alcohol or drug use.
The mental health expert checks if symptoms fit illness anxiety disorder, or if another condition like somatic symptom disorder or generalized anxiety disorder is present.
They use differential diagnosis to rule out other mental health issues, such as conversion disorder or panic disorder. Sometimes, they may also find comorbidity with other disorders.
The screening process includes a review of genetic and psychological factors and risk factors. This approach follows criteria found in the DSM-5-TR for somatic symptom disorders and related illnesses.
Treatment
Talking Therapy Approaches
Therapists often use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help people manage strong health worries. CBT teaches skills that assist people in identifying and challenging their fears about serious illnesses.
These skills include learning to notice anxious thoughts, changing how they react to physical feelings, and practicing new coping strategies.
Key skills developed in therapy sessions may involve:
- Finding different ways to respond to body sensations.
- Reducing habits such as constant checking for symptoms.
- Managing stress and learning to handle anxiety in a healthier way.
- Taking part in activities without letting health worries interfere.
- Improving relationships and daily routines by reducing the time spent seeking reassurance.
Mental health professionals can guide other types of therapy, like stress management or gradually facing health-related fears (exposure therapy).
Medication-Based Aids
Doctors can add certain medicines to the treatment plan when needed. They might suggest antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), to help lower anxiety and improve mood.
| Medication Type | Common Purpose |
|---|---|
| SSRIs | Lessen anxiety and improve mood |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Sometimes used if other medicines do not help |
| Anti-anxiety medications | May be considered in some situations |
Sometimes, they discuss other options such as anti-anxiety drugs or tricyclic antidepressants, especially if additional mental health issues are present.
Healthcare providers work with the patient to find the best medication and dose. They discuss possible side effects and how the medicine might affect daily life.
Regular follow-up appointments allow for adjustments in the treatment plan, based on the patient’s needs and progress.
Everyday Strategies and Tips for Managing at Home
Making certain changes at home and in daily routines can help people address anxiety about health and improve their quality of life.
Regularly working together with a primary care provider or mental health professional provides steady support and helps manage health concerns effectively.
Setting up a consistent schedule for check-ins can build trust while keeping unnecessary tests and repeat doctor visits to a minimum.
Reducing stress plays a key role in controlling fear related to health. Practicing relaxation methods, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, can calm the mind.
Staying physically active also supports mental well-being. Even simple activities like walking or light exercises most days of the week can ease anxiety.
Keeping up with work, family, and social activities offers distraction and creates a sense of normalcy. This ongoing involvement can give emotional support and keep fears from taking over daily life.
It is important to avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, as these can add to anxiety and make treatment harder. Seek help to stop using these substances if needed.
Try not to spend excessive time searching online for symptoms or illnesses. Information overload from the internet can make fears worse and lead to unnecessary stress.
When worried about new symptoms, discuss them with the healthcare provider at the next scheduled visit.
Quick Reference Table:
| Tip | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Regular provider check-ins | Builds trust, coordinates care |
| Stress and relaxation techniques | Eases anxiety, calms the mind |
| Physical activity | Improves mood, reduces stress |
| Participation in daily activities | Social support, less focus on fears |
| Avoid alcohol and drugs | Supports treatment, prevents setbacks |
| Limit health-related internet use | Less confusion, reduces worry |
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take Before the Appointment
Getting organized before seeing a primary care physician or a mental health professional helps make the appointment more useful.
Having details ready about symptoms—including when they began, how often they occur, and how they affect daily activities—can provide your doctor with important insights.
Consider making a list or using a table, like the one below, to keep track of information:
| Information to Prepare | Details to Include |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | When symptoms started, how severe, what helps or makes them worse |
| Personal History | Stressful events, trauma, important life changes |
| Medical Background | Other diagnosed conditions, past treatments |
| Current Medications & Supplements | Name, dosage, and how often each one is taken |
| Questions for the Provider | Anything you want to know about diagnosis or treatment |
Bringing a trusted family member or friend can help remember what the doctor says and give extra support.
It is also helpful to write down questions beforehand. These might include:
- What is the best way to treat my condition?
- Would therapy or medication be helpful for me?
- How long is treatment expected to last?
- Are there possible side effects to any medicine?
- How will my progress be checked?
Patients should feel comfortable sharing questions or concerns. Doctors and mental health professionals want to help, and open communication makes treatment more effective.
What Providers Might Discuss or Ask
During the appointment, the primary care provider or specialist usually reviews symptoms and medical history. They may ask about:
- When the symptoms first appeared and how they have changed
- How much symptoms affect daily life at school, work, or at home
- Any family history of mental health issues
- Physical health and any other existing conditions
- Use of alcohol, tobacco, or other substances
- Physical activity and lifestyle habits
The doctor or mental health expert could also ask follow-up questions, depending on these answers.
Organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association and the National Institute of Mental Health provide guidance to help doctors follow the right steps for evaluation.
