"Most patients first come to see me in states of extreme confusion, frustration, and exasperation. They have commonly already seen a number of different doctors in search of a coherent explanation for their symptoms, only to be routinely told that all tests have come back normal."
"Research suggests that around a quarter of general practice patients experience significant persistent physical symptoms, and that roughly 10 percent have a history of multiple, distressing chronic symptoms."
"Fortunately, a growing body of research from neuroscience and psychoneuroimmunology is offering scientifically robust explanations for why some people develop persistent physical symptoms, even in the apparent absence of an underlying disease."
"What remains highly problematic is that most health professionals are not aware of this new science, nor of the emerging treatments that can help people to recover."
Patients often experience confusion and frustration after seeing multiple doctors without receiving a coherent explanation for their symptoms. Many are told their tests are normal or that their issues are psychological. Common diagnoses provide little more than symptom descriptions. Research indicates a significant number of patients have persistent physical symptoms, yet many health professionals remain unaware of new scientific insights and treatments. This gap in knowledge leads to inadequate care, as clinicians often believe their role ends once a disease is ruled out.
#persistent-physical-symptoms #medical-confusion #neuroscience #psychoneuroimmunology #healthcare-challenges
Read at Psychology Today
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