Many doctors have difficulty understanding functional symptoms and explaining them to patients. Functional symptoms and syndromes are often considered to be related to stress, depression, anxiety or psychosomatic reactions. The term "functional" tends to carry a negative connotation, implying that somehow the symptoms are phoney, imagined or all in your head. These misconceptions only lead to greater frustration and confusion.
The diagnosis of functional syndromes is intended to reassure patients that the doctor understands their symptom experience and that there is no serious disease present. Unfortunately, many patients do not understand what is happening to them. How can they feel so ill when all of their medical tests are normal?
Many doctors have difficulty understanding functional symptoms and
explaining them to patients. Functional symptoms and syndromes are
often considered to be related to stress, depression, anxiety or
psychosomatic reactions. The term...
More
Dr. Bill Salt answered:Many doctors have difficulty understanding functional symptoms and explaining them to patients. Functional symptoms and syndromes are often considered to be related to stress, depression, anxiety or psychosomatic reactions. The term "functional" tends to carry a negative connotation, implying that somehow the symptoms are phoney, imagined or all in your head. These misconceptions only lead to greater frustration and confusion.
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