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Medically unexplained symptoms

Information from the Medical Directory health library.

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This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.

Overview

Medically unexplained symptoms are physical symptoms for which no clear medical cause can be found despite thorough investigation, often linked to psychological factors.

Symptoms

Persistent pain or fatigue Digestive problems Palpitations or shortness of breath Neurological complaints (numbness, tingling) Fluctuating severity of symptoms

Causes

Psychological stress and anxiety Somatic symptom disorder or other mental health conditions Previous trauma or illness

Diagnosis

Detailed medical history and physical examination Exclusion of underlying medical conditions Psychological assessment

Treatment

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) Mindfulness and stress management Symptom-targeted treatments Patient education and support

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