What is somatic symptom disorder?

A condition marked by one or more physical symptoms together with excessive thoughts, anxiety or behaviours related to those symptoms. Diagnosis is made by a qualified clinician.

Which specialist should I see first?

Starting with a primary care physician is common; they can assess symptoms and refer to psychiatry or relevant medical specialties such as neurology or internal medicine if needed.

Could my symptoms be due to another medical condition?

Yes. Many physical conditions can cause similar complaints, so clinicians aim to exclude or identify relevant medical causes before focusing on symptom-management strategies.

When should I go to the emergency department?

Seek urgent care for sudden, severe or life‑threatening signs such as severe chest pain, sudden severe breathlessness, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or very high fever.

Somatic Symptom Disorder

Somatic symptom disorder involves one or more physical complaints together with persistent, excessive thoughts, anxiety or behaviours focused on those symptoms. Below are general points about common features, possible causes, how assessments are usually approached and where people may be directed for specialist care.

What it is and how it’s recognized

The diagnosis centers on the person’s response to physical symptoms rather than on whether a specific medical cause is found. Frequent health worries, preoccupation with symptoms and behaviours such as repeated medical visits or extensive self-checking are typical. A definitive evaluation requires clinical history, a focused examination and, when indicated, tests performed by a clinician; online information cannot replace a professional assessment.

Common symptoms and everyday impact

Reported complaints often include widespread pain, persistent fatigue, gastrointestinal troubles, headaches and palpitations. These symptoms can be accompanied by excessive rumination about health, reduced work attendance or strain in relationships. Intensity and type of complaints vary between people; the impact on daily life is an important part of assessment.

Possible causes and risk factors

There is no single cause. Genetic background, personality traits, prior health anxieties, chronic illness history, exposure to stress or trauma, and a tendency to focus on bodily sensations may all contribute. These factors can interact differently in each person; understanding them helps guide appropriate support and referrals.

Assessment, referral pathways and urgent signs

Initial evaluation is commonly done in primary care or by psychiatry; clinicians may involve internal medicine, neurology, rheumatology or other specialties to exclude or address medical conditions. The goal is to identify treatable medical problems and to provide suitable support and referrals. If someone has new or severe chest pain, marked breathlessness, sudden weakness, loss of consciousness, severe fever or other acute concerning signs, they should seek urgent medical attention or call emergency services.

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