Health obsession - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

JEDDD5 · 01-19-2006, 02:50 PM

Hello! I'm 28 years old and I constantly think that I am dying of some type of disease. Depending on the day and how I am feeling depends on the disease. Everyone tells me that I'm fine but how do they know? I have constant anxiety/panic attacks because of this. It is all I can think about. For the past 2 weeks it has been different forms of cancer. Can constant thoughts and fears about illnesses cause symptoms of said illnesses? Can the mind be that powerful that it can bring on certain and sometimes quite painful symptoms of the disease I am obsessing about? Does anyone constantly think that they have a terminal illness and actually feel the symptoms? I do everyday. I feel like a major nutcase and would appreciate the input.
THANKS
Emily

stillhopefull · 01-19-2006, 04:57 PM

Hi Emily,,
I'm sure you'll find LOTS of people here that suffer the same. I am 26 years old and I am one of them, and yes the answer to your question is yes, the mind is a very powerful thing. You'd be surprised at the physical symptoms I have had,, and like you it all depends on the illness I am obsessing over that particular day. There have been times when I just couldn't cope with daily life.. Just flat out to afraid!! I was certain I was dying from something. It is a horrible way to live,, but try and remember that you are not alone, and that there is help out there!!
Have you gone to your doctor? Maybe discuss this with the doc, there are medications to help!! Keep posting

JEN

Copsgrl8 · 01-20-2006, 12:26 AM

Hi Emily

I know what you are talking about cuz I am the SAME EXACT WAY. I always think I have some terrible illness and will not wake up in the morning.
I suffer from anxiety and panic attacks as well.

I have started taking meds about 6 months ago and feel a lot better as far as the attacks are considered.
I have talked to my doctor about my health obsession and he told me it's call "Health Anxiety" and I guess it's pretty common.

I try to keep an open mind but when I get the slightest pain I am scared ...It really is a terrible way to live ...
I feel your pain hun

Terri

JEDDD5 · 01-20-2006, 07:07 AM

Thank you for responding!!! There are people out there like me. To know that it even has a name makes it even better. I'm on antidepressants but they don't seems to help with my obsessing over my health. I do however find comfort in knowing that I am not alone. Thank You!!!!!!
Emily

daftthing · 01-20-2006, 03:25 PM

Emily, you are most certainly not alone on this one. This problem is my worst OCD symptom. It's so so hard to deal.

Karen. Xx