 |
Somatoform pain disorder
Definition
Somatoform pain disorder is persistent and long-term (chronic) pain due to psychological factors.
Alternative Names
Pain disorder
Causes
Pain is one of the most common reasons why people seek medical attention. In somatoform pain disorder, the pain is so severe that it impairs a person's ability to function.
The pain in this condition is thought to be related to psychological factors, such as stress. People with this illness may have other medical problems, but these do not fully explain the pain.
There is a stigma about psychological pain by medical professionals and the general public. Some people do not fully understand the connection between mind and body. They mistakenly believe that psychological pain isn't "real" and should be able to be controlled without medical or mental health treatment.
Symptoms
The main symptom of pain disorder is chronic pain that lasts for several months and limits a person's work, relationships, and other activities.
Exams and Tests
A thorough medical evaluation, including laboratory work, is done to determine possible causes of the pain.
Treatment
Some patients may not believe that their pain is due to psychological factors, and may refuse treatment by a mental health professional. Yet many chronic pain syndromes, including those due to physical problems, can be effectively treated with antidepressants.
Supportive measures such as hot and cold packs, physical therapy, distraction techniques, and massage can also be helpful. Prescription and nonprescription pain medications are usually not effective and can have serious side effects.
Support Groups
People with this disorder may benefit from treatment at pain centers.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outlook is worse for patients who have had symptoms for a long time. Your outlook will improve if you can start doing your previous activities, even with the pain.
Possible Complications
- Addiction to prescription pain medications (if they are not used correctly)
- Complications from surgery
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you or your child experiences chronic pain.
References
DeGruy FV. The somatic patient. In: Rakel RE, ed. Textbook of Family Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 61.
Purcell TB. Somatoform disorders. In: Marx J, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2006:chap 111.
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
| A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). |
