Hypochondriasis is a medical condition in which the affected individual feels that he or she suffers from a particular disease due to a set of perceived symptoms or signs, which do not have any concrete medical basis. Such affected individuals typically visit a lot of doctors and undergo repeated investigations, which usually turn out negative. Rather than suffering from the symptoms of any particular disease, it is the fear of disease which troubles such people. It is usually very difficult to convince affected individuals that they do not have any particular problem. Repeated counseling and assurances are required in the management of hypochondriac people.
The Ayurvedic management of hypochondriasis consists of giving medicines to boost the confidence of the patient as well as giving medicines which increase the natural immunity as well as vigour and vitality of the person. In addition, medicines are also given to improve the positive outlook of the person, so that the affected individual is able to face life and day-to-day activities in a normal manner. Loss of confidence, anxiety, and negative outlook of life are common in hypochondriac people. Ayurvedic medicines help to remove all these negative feelings, and bring about a positive outlook and improved confidence in the affected individual, so that the person is able to cope up with his or her problems. Needless to say, such people still required counseling and reassurance that they do not suffer from any serious medical condition.
Hypochondriasis is a complex condition, and different individuals may present in different ways. Each affected individual needs to be treated in a tailor-made fashion, with innovative treatment programmes and appropriate psychological handling. However, a judicious combination of counseling and Ayurvedic treatment helps to properly manage most people with hypochondriasis.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
