somatization

somatization /so·ma·ti·za·tion/ (so″mah-tĭ-za´shun) the conversion of mental experiences or states into bodily symptoms.

---

so·ma·ti·za·tion (sm-t-zshn)

n.

In psychiatry, the conversion of anxiety into physical symptoms.

---

Somatization

Anxiety converted into physical symptoms. Somatization is a sign of panic disorder.

Mentioned in: Palpitations

---

somatization

[sō′mətīzā′shən]

Etymology: Gk, soma, body

a process whereby a mental event is expressed in a body disorder or physical symptom. Examples include peptic ulcers and asthma. See also conversion.

---

somatization [so″mah-tĭ-za´shun]

in psychiatry, the conversion of mental experiences or states into bodily symptoms.

somatization disorder a somatoform disorder characterized by multiple vague, recurring somatic complaints that cannot be fully explained by any known general medical condition or the direct effect of a chemical substance, but are not intentionally feigned or produced; it usually begins before age 30 and persists for several years. The patient may simply complain of being ill or may have specific symptoms, but the complaints will include a combination of at least multiple pain symptoms, multiple gastrointestinal symptoms, a sexual symptom, and a neurological symptom. Typical complaints include double vision, fainting, abdominal pain, bowel problems, painful menstruation, and sexual indifference. The complaints are often presented in a dramatic and exaggerated manner, but the patient is vague about their exact nature. The patient may visit many health care providers, sometimes several simultaneously, and undergo numerous diagnostic procedures, unnecessary treatments, and even surgery. Most such patients are anxious and depressed and have difficulty in personal relationships; many have traits of histrionic personality disorder. They are seldom free of symptoms in spite of frequent medical attention; in fact, the repeated, unnecessary diagnostic procedures or surgery may only add to their suffering. The outlook for these patients is poor. Called also Briquet's syndrome.

---

somatization

Psychology A multifactorial tendency to experience and report somatic Sx with no pathophysiologic cause

---

Patient discussion about somatization.

Q. Can depression cause your sight to narrow and your vision to be very spacey? Can depression cause your sight to narrow and your vision to be very spacey? If not what else may be the factor? If it did not seem to be that you were actually losing your vision and that you needed glasses.

A. Emotional depression originating from a person's response to life circumstances can squelch lymph circulation. Good lymph circulation is vital for good vision.

Also disease can affect lymph circulation and can cause physical depression and reduce vision.