What is Somatization?

Definition of Somatization:

Somatization is an alteration of a mental state (as depression or anxiety) into physical symptoms.  It is also the existence of physical bodily complaints in the absence of a known medical condition. 

What is Somatization:

It is a somatoform disorder characterised by recurring, multiple, and current, clinically significant complaints about somatic symptoms.  Symptoms often include reports of pain, gastrointestinal distress, sexual problems and symptoms such as amnesia or breathing difficulties. Somatization can also occur during the course of, or be associated with, a medical condition. Clients with symptoms of somatization also show high levels of worry, anxiety, and increased reactions in response to physical symptoms.  Individuals with somatization typically visit many doctors in pursuit of effective treatment. Somatization also causes challenge and burden on the life of the caregivers or significant others of the client.

Symptoms:

Pain symptoms

• Diffuse pain
• Joint pain
• Pain in limbs
• Headaches

Pseudoneurological symptoms

• Amnesia
• Loss of voice
• Seizures
• Difficulty with walking
• Difficulty with swallowing

Reproductive organ symptoms

• Painful sensations in sex organs/genitals
• Irregularity in menstrual cycles
• Excessive menstrual bleeding
• Pain during sex

Cardiopulmonary symptoms

• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath at rest

Gastrointestinal symptoms

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain

Other common symptoms

• Vague food allergies
• Chronic fatigue
• Sensitivity to certain chemicals

The link between sexual abuse and somatic disorders:

Research has shown that sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of somatic disorders, in which clients report physical symptoms or complaints with no clear underlying cause, a review of nearly two dozen studies concluded.

Clients with a history of sexual abuse, as children or adults, are more likely to experience gastrointestinal disorders, nonspecific chronic pain, psychogenic seizures and chronic pelvic pain. 

Research has also shown that doctors commonly encounter survivors in general medical practice.  Survivors of sexual abuse face a spectrum of often challenging health concerns, resulting in greater health care.