Mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and depression, can manifest in various bodily symptoms (also called somatic symptoms). It is not uncommon for these symptoms to be mistaken as purely physical pains and ailments.
Some common somatic symptoms
of mental health conditions are:
• Chest heaviness and palpitations
(rapid heart-beat)
• Increased muscle tension leading to non-specific pains in the body, muscle stiffness, or even soreness
• Unexplained or sudden headaches, known as tension headaches
• Gastrointestinal distress such as indigestion, stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, bloating, or even irritable bowel syndrome
• Heightened pain sensitivity due to lowered pain threshold, amplifying pain perception from existing conditions or causing various physical pain without a clear cause
• Sleep disturbances such as disrupted sleep patterns, insomnia, and poor sleep quality further exacerbate physical symptoms and contribute to overall discomfort and fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Profuse sweating, especially in the palms, underarms, or forehead
• Shaking or trembling in hands, legs, or other body parts
• Constant fatigue or exhaustion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
These bodily symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual and the specific circumstances triggering their anxiety. Most often, these somatic symptoms persist, and the individuals experiencing these symptoms may continue seeking medical expertise for the physical symptoms rather than getting the mental health issues addressed. When no specific physical or underlying medical conditions can be attributed to the somatic symptoms, it is essential to consider the possibility of an underlying mental health issue like anxiety or depression.
If left unidentified or untreated, these somatic symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Collaborative care involving mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or therapists, alongside pain management specialists can help address both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain exacerbated by underlying anxiety disorders. This holistic approach may involve therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle adjustments to effectively manage both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain and mental health.
(The author, Dr. Pallavi Joshi, is a Consultant – Psychiatrist, at Manipal Hospital.)
