Patients with somatization symptoms in general practice - the danger of chronification or the opportunity to improve

Journal/Book: Verhaltenstherapie. 1998; 8: Allschwilerstrasse 10, CH-4009 Basel, Switzerland. Karger. 94-100.

Abstract: Physicians are to a large extent influenced by a medical view of physical symptoms and complaints, in which they have only physical causes. A physical disease is in this regard characterized by its particular etiology, which - once correctly diagnosed - allows the prescription of a specific, rational therapy. Somatization disorders do not fit into this biologic concept. Somatoform symptoms are dependent on environmental influences and the individual's way of coping with them, on thoughts and beliefs about illness and on accompanying psychiatric disorders. It is demonstrated that a chronification of the somatization disorder results, when somatoform symptoms are dealt with in the same way as with physical illness. The opportunity for long-lasting reduction of symptoms is dependent on a stable relationship between physician and patient. The specific way somatization patients should be treated are discussed. This includes e.g, to identify the psychic and environmental influences on the symptoms as well as to recognize affective disorders, dysfunctional cognitions, and fears concerning the complaints.

Note: Article Cuntz U, Med Psychol Klin Roseneck, Roseneck 6, D-83209 Prien Am Chiemsee, GERMANY

Keyword(s): somatization disorders; somatoform symptoms; functional gastrointestinal complaints; irritable bowel syndrome; physician-patient relationship; biological illness concept; psychophysiological illness concept; IRRITABLE-BOWEL-SYNDROME; GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS; BEHAVIORAL-THERAPY; PANIC DISORDER; MEDICAL-CARE; DISEASE; VICTIMIZATION; COGNITIONS; COMPLAINTS; DISTRESS

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