Many people experience chronic physical symptoms, such as dizziness or discomfort, but may not appear as signs of a medical problem. What are Medically Unexplained Symptoms, and how to deal with them?

Both physical and psychological factors cause all medical diseases. Our mental condition has a significant impact on how we perceive physical sickness. Our emotional state has a substantial influence on the symptoms of common physical ailments such as asthma, diabetes, and arthritis. Our mental state influences our immune system and the levels of hormones such as cortisol in our body.

This is referred to as “medically unexplained symptoms” when symptoms linger for more than a few weeks, and doctors cannot identify a problem with the body that could be the reason. This is not to say that the symptoms are fabricated or “all in your head”; they are real and can impair your capacity to function normally.

MUS is not rare, with approximately one-quarter of persons attending physicians reporting symptoms that cannot be quickly diagnosed as a recognized medical illness. This is not to say that your problem cannot be remedied; it simply necessitates thinking beyond a physical sickness diagnosis.

What are Medically Unexplained Symptoms, and how to deal with them?

The relationship between mental and physical symptoms

MUS, sometimes known as ‘functional symptoms,’ are bodily complaints that linger for over a few weeks and are unrelated to a confirmed physical condition. Many MUS patients who describe symptoms like joint or muscular pain, exhaustion, or heart palpitations are found to have mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. As a result, treating the accompanying symptoms of these mental health issues can aid in the relief of your physical symptoms.

When you don’t know what’s causing your symptoms, you may experience distress and uncertainty, which can impair your ability to operate in daily life. When standard diagnostic techniques such as blood tests, x-rays, and scans are inconclusive, and your pain persists, it may indicate that a psychological problem is underlying your physical discomfort.

Despite the lack of a clear relationship to a physical condition that matches your symptoms, you could be diagnosed with MUS for various reasons. It is critical to recognize that stressful life events, fears, and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression can show in the form of physical ailments, despite the fact that they appear to be solely mental in nature.

Because your mind and body are inextricably linked, when your mind is affected by stress, worry, or depression, the physical symptoms of these diseases are the first to manifest. As a result, you may be unaware that you have anxiety or depression, instead focusing on bodily symptoms that you feel are caused by a physical cause.

When you have anxiety, sadness, or excessive amounts of stress, you may suffer the following bodily symptoms:

• Rapid heartbeat and palpitations, shortness of breath.
• Tremors, dry mouth, chest tightness, and neck stiffness.
• Low tolerance to physical discomfort. 
• Loss of appetite, weight loss, low energy, and general aches and pains.
• Periods of elevated stress, resulting in headaches, muscle tightness, nausea, and dizziness, which can make you feel particularly uncomfortable.

It may be difficult to pinpoint a single reason, therefore, considering many aspects that may contribute to MUS may be beneficial. Because studies have failed to establish a physical explanation, these symptoms are assumed to be psychological in nature. The mind is extremely powerful, and there are strong connections between the mind and the body. Psychological stress or traumatic situations might occasionally set off the symptoms. Furthermore, our prior experience with physical illness, family history, and the mental image of how the body functions are all crucial factors to consider. Yet, in certain cases of MUS, no psychological cause has been detected.

How to help yourself if you’re struggling with MUS?

MUS treatment begins with a positive clinical assessment and diagnosis. Knowing the diagnosis is critical. Also, anxiety might be increased by researching the symptoms online. This might also be a hindrance to healing.

You can improve or even eliminate some physical problems by engaging in regular exercise and managing stress. Frequent exercise will help you stay fit, and many individuals find that it improves their mood. The amount of exercise you should undertake will be determined by your existing health and ability.

Stress management also is critical because it has been related to issues such as discomfort and IBS. Learn about stress-relieving breathing exercises. Planning some delightful personal time to decompress should assist in general – whatever helps you relax, whether it’s yoga courses, swimming, running, meditation, or scenic walks.

It’s also crucial to investigate whether any medications you’re taking are causing your symptoms; for example, using pain relievers for an extended period of time can cause headaches. The doctor should also examine whether you have any linked issues, such as sadness or anxiety. Bodily issues can lead to depression and anxiety, which can exacerbate the physical symptoms, creating a vicious spiral.

Remember that even if your sickness is later determined to be physiological, being ill for months or years makes it impossible for anyone to maintain positive moods and self-esteem, let alone maintain a social life or manage finances. At the very least, therapy can help you deal with the stressors of being sick.