Can anxiety 'create' a pain/symptom? - Anxiety Message Board

Lori3 · 02-17-2003, 05:54 PM

Do you believe that if you worry enough about a pain then you can actually make yourself believe you have that pain? I know there have been times that I've done that to myself and I'm wondering if I'm not alone. Many years ago I worked for the American Cancer Society and met a lady who lost her leg to cancer. I swore that my leg hurt everyday after that and I convinced myself something was wrong with it.

ttynn · 02-17-2003, 07:11 PM

I think it could be true. The mind can play tricks on you. I swear sometimes I've made my symptoms surface just by thinking about them.

rainbowbubbles · 02-18-2003, 05:20 AM

In a word yes it can. I often think about feeling sick and sure enough soon I will do. If i talk myself round i can think of anything and feel the symptoms within an hour!

hypochondriac · 02-18-2003, 05:45 AM

i would have to say yes because you know when you feel sick and starting a headache ,, well i find if you keep tinking about your headaches it will get worst so yes i believe that stress can cause pains and aches..

rob71 · 03-11-2003, 07:14 PM

definately, ever since i was diagnosed with testicular cancer ive become a hypochondriac. Every little ache and pain is something life threatening. Most of my symptoms i have are related to anxiety also. My advice is if you feel you have an illness, see a doctor and DO NOT do research on the net. I have found that i find things wrong with me that are not really there all caused by my anxiety disorder.