{"id":9133,"date":"2025-12-23T00:04:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-23T08:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=9133"},"modified":"2026-01-08T11:57:27","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:57:27","slug":"understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Illness Anxiety Disorder: A helpful guide for health professionals"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#What_Is_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder\" >What Is Illness Anxiety Disorder?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Differentiating_IAD_From_Related_Disorders\" >Differentiating IAD From Related Disorders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Causes_and_Risk_Factors\" >Causes and Risk Factors<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Common_Risk_Factors_for_IAD\" >Common Risk Factors for IAD<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Recognizing_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder_in_Patients\" >Recognizing Illness Anxiety Disorder in Patients<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Diagnosis_and_Assessment\" >Diagnosis and Assessment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Screening_and_Diagnostic_Tools\" >Screening and Diagnostic Tools<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Treatment_Approaches\" >Treatment Approaches<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Psychotherapy_First-Line_Treatment\" >Psychotherapy (First-Line Treatment)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Pharmacologic_Treatment\" >Pharmacologic Treatment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Supporting_Patients_in_Clinical_Practice\" >Supporting Patients in Clinical Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Considerations_for_Health_Professionals\" >Considerations for Health Professionals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Resources_for_Health_Professionals\" >Resources for Health Professionals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Resources\" >Resources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">Illness Anxiety Disorder <\/a>(IAD)<\/strong>, previously called <strong>Hypochondriasis<\/strong> or <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/hypochondria\">Hypochondria<\/a><\/strong>, is a <strong>mental health disorder<\/strong> marked by <strong>intense anxiety<\/strong> and <strong>excessive fear of having or developing a serious illness<\/strong>. Even after repeated <strong>normal lab results and exams<\/strong>, patients with IAD remain <strong>highly vigilant about their health.<\/strong> They may <strong>misinterpret normal sensations<\/strong>, such as fatigue, brief pain, or stomach discomfort, as <strong>signs of severe disease.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To meet <strong>DSM-5 diagnostic criteria<\/strong> for<strong> health-related anxiety (<\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/\">IAD<\/a><\/strong><strong>)<\/strong>, symptoms must persist for <strong>at least six months<\/strong> and cannot be better explained by another <strong>psychiatric disorder.<\/strong> Under the <strong>DSM-5<\/strong>, <strong>Illness Anxiety Disorder<\/strong> is classified within <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders\/overview-of-somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders\">Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders<\/a><\/strong>. This group of conditions is characterized by a <strong>disproportionate focus on physical health <\/strong>that leads to <strong>clinically significant distress <\/strong>and negatively impacts patients\u2019 daily lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While <strong>IAD affects &nbsp;<\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399921003512\">less than 1% of the population<\/a><\/strong>, its impact on the <strong>healthcare system<\/strong> is significant. Due to the nature of the disorder, people with IAD often engage in <strong>frequent medical visits<\/strong>, undergo <strong>repeated diagnostic testing<\/strong>, and receive <strong>fragmented care<\/strong>, which increases use of <strong>healthcare resources<\/strong> and <strong>provider burden<\/strong>. These patterns also negatively affect patients\u2019 <strong>quality of life<\/strong> and raise the risk of <strong>misdiagnosis<\/strong>. Consequently, it\u2019s essential for <strong>health professionals<\/strong> to recognize and effectively manage IAD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder\"><\/span>What Is Illness Anxiety Disorder?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What if you had a <strong>daily preoccupation<\/strong> with the idea that you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/living-with-hypochondria-or-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-patients-perspective\">currently have or will eventually develop a serious illness<\/a>? Patients with <strong>IAD<\/strong> worry about having or developing a serious illness, even in the absence of <strong>significant physical symptoms<\/strong>. This <strong>health anxiety<\/strong> often leads to behaviors such as <strong>repeated body checking<\/strong>, <strong>reassurance seeking<\/strong>, or <strong>excessive online symptom research<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two <strong>clinical patterns<\/strong> are commonly observed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/\">Care-seeking type<\/a><\/strong>: frequent medical visits, repeated testing, and provider switching<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/\">Care-avoidant type<\/a><\/strong>: avoidance of medical care due to fear of receiving a serious diagnosis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prevalence of <strong>significant health anxiety<\/strong> in <strong>general practice (primary care) is<\/strong> estimated to be between <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S002239991100211X#:~:text=Of%2043%2C205%20patients%20attending%20the,condition%20in%20general%20hospital%20settings.\">0.8% and 3.05%<\/a><\/strong><strong>. <\/strong>The prevalence of <strong>illness anxiety<\/strong> is notably higher in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S016503272400747X\">specialty care settings<\/a><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Endocrinology<\/strong>: 17.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cardiology<\/strong>: 19.1%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gastroenterology<\/strong>: 19.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Respiratory medicine<\/strong>: 20.9%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Neurology<\/strong>: 24.7%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"750\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Mental-health-assessment.png\" alt=\"Illustration of a human head silhouette in profile with a blue brain shape inside containing words related to mental health conditions, including anxiety, PTSD, dementia, mood, personality, psychosis, substance use, and eating disorder.\" class=\"wp-image-9134\" style=\"width:349px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Mental-health-assessment.png 750w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Mental-health-assessment.png?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Mental-health-assessment.png?resize=300,300 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differentiating_IAD_From_Related_Disorders\"><\/span>Differentiating IAD From Related Disorders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do you know how IAD differs from other <strong>anxiety disorders, somatic symptoms<\/strong>, or other related disorders?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Generalized_anxiety_disorder\">Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)<\/a><\/strong> involves <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Generalized_anxiety_disorder%2C_agoraphobia%2C_and_panic_disorder:_Clinical_sciences\">excessive worry<\/a> across multiple aspects of daily life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD)<\/strong> involves distressing <a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/17976-somatic-symptom-disorder-in-adults\">symptoms<\/a>, such as pain or fatigue. Patients feel extreme anxiety about their symptoms and seek a range of interventions to investigate them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Anxiety and distress<\/strong> are present in all these disorders, but the <strong>cause differs<\/strong>. In <strong>IAD<\/strong>, the patient\u2019s fears center on <strong>illness<\/strong>, not symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Causes_and_Risk_Factors\"><\/span>Causes and Risk Factors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>exact cause of IAD<\/strong> is still unknown. Several <a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2?utm_source=chatgpt.com#Sec2\">theories are being investigated<\/a> that help explain its development, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Misinterpretation of bodily sensations:<\/strong> Individuals misinterpret normal physical sensations as signs of serious illness, leading to <a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2?utm_source=chatgpt.com#Sec2\">maladaptive safety behaviors<\/a> such as excessive medical visits, reassurance seeking, symptom research, or avoidance of medical care.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2741157\/\">Anxious attachment style<\/a><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong> Health anxiety may stem from an anxious attachment style rooted in childhood experiences, resulting in maladaptive care-seeking behaviors due to a need for emotional reassurance that\u2019s fulfilled by receiving medical care for health concerns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maladaptive coping mechanisms:<\/strong> To manage distress caused by <a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2?utm_source=chatgpt.com#Sec2\">dysfunctional health beliefs<\/a>, individuals engage in behaviors such as excessive doctor visits, body checking, or health-related research. These behaviors may provide short-term relief, but ultimately maintain health anxiety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Risk_Factors_for_IAD\"><\/span>Common Risk Factors for IAD<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aside from these theories, a variety of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">risk factors<\/a><\/strong> relate to the development of <strong>IAD<\/strong>. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Frequent family focus on illness or health concerns<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Serious childhood illness<\/strong> or illness in close family members<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comorbid anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excessive health-related internet use<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>History of trauma, abuse, or neglect<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chronic or extreme stress<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a <strong>medical or psychiatric condition <\/strong>does not rule out<strong> IAD. <\/strong>Patients with IAD can also have<strong> <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Major_depressive_disorder\">depression<\/a><\/strong><strong>, <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-manage-your-fears-anxieties-and-phobias\">anxiety<\/a><\/strong><strong>, <\/strong>or<strong> <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-im-managing-medical-school-with-ocd\">obsessive-compulsive disorder<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognizing_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder_in_Patients\"><\/span>Recognizing Illness Anxiety Disorder in Patients<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a <strong>healthcare professional<\/strong>, there are a few ways that you may recognize <strong>IAD<\/strong> in patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patients with IAD most often present in <strong>primary care settings<\/strong>. Despite <strong>normal physical exams and diagnostic testing<\/strong>, they continue to express <strong>intense concern about undiagnosed illness<\/strong>, despite <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">constant reassurance<\/a> that their physical exam and labs are normal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Clinical features <\/strong>that suggest <strong>Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD)<\/strong> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Frequent medical visits<\/strong> to a variety of providers for the same concern<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Persistent reassurance seeking<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High sensitivity to bodily sensations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">Impairment in social, occupational, or academic functioning<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"684\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png?w=1024\" alt=\"Educational infographic about Illness Anxiety Disorder. A person sits in a chair holding their head, with medical symbols (heart, caduceus, computer with medical cross) in a thought cloud above them. The infographic is divided into sections: Background (formerly called hypochondria; persistent fear of having or developing serious illness; negative impacts on mental health, relationships, and careers), Symptoms (high anxiety without significant disease symptoms; avoiding or excessively using health care; exaggerating symptoms; ruminating on normal bodily functions; seeking reassurance; being alarmed by medical information; persistent fears despite medical advice), and Treatment (based on severity and history; lifestyle changes like relaxation techniques and reducing health-focused research; psychotherapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy; medications including antidepressants).\" class=\"wp-image-9135\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png 1920w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png?resize=768,513 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png?resize=1024,684 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Illness-Anxiety-Disorder-IAD.png?resize=1536,1026 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosis_and_Assessment\"><\/span>Diagnosis and Assessment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><\/strong>Diagnosis of <strong>IAD <\/strong>requires a <strong>thorough medical evaluation<\/strong> to reasonably rule out underlying disease. Make sure to gather a <strong>detailed <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/11-tips-for-taking-a-patient-history\">patient history<\/a><\/strong>, complete a <strong>comprehensive physical exam<\/strong>, and order <strong>necessary testing<\/strong> based on the patient\u2019s symptoms. Throughout the assessment, prioritize <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/skills-that-set-you-apart-becoming-a-remarkable-clinician\">active listening, empathy, and validation of distress<\/a><\/strong>. Avoid <strong>unnecessary testing<\/strong>. When assessing a patient, determine whether their symptoms reflect a genuine medical condition requiring further evaluation or if they\u2019re consistent with IAD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Screening_and_Diagnostic_Tools\"><\/span>Screening and Diagnostic Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are also <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2?utm_source=chatgpt.com#Sec3\">screening tools<\/a><\/strong> available to assist with the diagnosis of IAD:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">Health Preoccupation Diagnostic Interview<\/a><\/strong><strong> <\/strong>(used primarily in research to differentiate between IAD and SSD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Anxiety and Related Disorders Interview Schedule for DSM-5 (ADIS-5)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because <strong>IAD is a psychiatric condition<\/strong>, <strong>interdisciplinary collaboration<\/strong>, particularly between <strong>psychology and psychiatry providers<\/strong>, is essential. Although patients frequently visit their <strong>primary care provider<\/strong>, IAD is a <strong>mental health condition<\/strong>, and a <strong>psychologist or psychiatrist<\/strong> who\u2019s part of the team can assist with diagnosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to keep in mind that <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/stigma-and-discrimination\">mental health stigma<\/a><\/strong> is still prevalent, and a patient may be reluctant to accept that what they&#8217;re experiencing is due to a <strong>mental health condition<\/strong> rather than an underlying medical condition. <strong>Normalizing mental health treatment<\/strong> through compassionate and open conversations is a great way to encourage patients to seek treatment for IAD symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Treatment_Approaches\"><\/span>Treatment Approaches<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">management of IAD<\/a><\/strong> relies on <strong>continuity of care<\/strong>, <strong>patient education<\/strong>, and <strong>evidence-based treatment<\/strong>. Patients should have <strong>regular follow-ups<\/strong> with their <strong>primary care physician<\/strong>, which allows the provider to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evaluate any new patient health concerns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Address and manage patient health and anxiety.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-collaborate-with-your-er-attending\">emergency room<\/a><\/strong><strong> visits<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid <strong>unnecessary lab tests, imaging studies, and referrals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid <strong>overburdening the healthcare system<\/strong> visiting additional clinicians.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patients should also be referred to a <strong>licensed mental health professional<\/strong> for an evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Psychotherapy_First-Line_Treatment\"><\/span>Psychotherapy (First-Line Treatment)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-mental-health-treatment-guide-for-clinicians-classic-behavioral-psychotherapies\">Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)<\/a><\/strong> is the <strong>first-line treatment<\/strong> for <strong>IAD<\/strong>. CBT helps patients:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify and challenge <strong>maladaptive health beliefs<\/strong> through behavior modification, reframing, and stress-reduction techniques.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce <strong>reassurance-seeking and checking behaviors<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reframe interpretations of <strong>normal bodily sensations<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Emerging evidence also supports:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2\">Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2\">Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pharmacologic_Treatment\"><\/span>Pharmacologic Treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">second-line treatments<\/a><\/strong> for <strong>IAD <\/strong>are <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Antidepressants_-_SSRIs_and_SNRIs:_Nursing_pharmacology#:~:text=In%20this%20video%2C%20we're,levels%20in%20the%20synaptic%20cleft.\">selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Antidepressants_-_SSRIs_and_SNRIs:_Nursing_pharmacology\">serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)<\/a><\/strong>, which are <strong>antidepressants<\/strong>. Most patients need a <strong>combination of psychotherapy and medication.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overall, treat <strong>IAD <\/strong>with <strong>patient education, support,<\/strong> and <strong>reassurance.<\/strong> Ensure patients <strong>feel heard and not dismissed<\/strong>. Build a <strong>strong <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/4-ways-you-can-start-improving-physician-patient-communication-right-now\">therapeutic alliance<\/a><\/strong> so patients feel understood and follow treatment. Be compassionate and supportive. Encourage <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/illness-anxiety-disorder\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20373787\">patients to avoid researching health concerns online,<\/a> use<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/illness-anxiety-disorder\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20373787\"> stress management techniques<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/illness-anxiety-disorder\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20373787\">exercise<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"1024\" width=\"632\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png?w=632\" alt=\"Illustration of three smiling people on a healthcare team standing together in blue tones, two wearing lab coats and one holding books. One person raises a hand in greeting or celebration, suggesting teamwork, learning, and a positive academic or healthcare setting.\" class=\"wp-image-9046\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.6177990907392414;width:325px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png 1235w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png?resize=185,300 185w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png?resize=768,1244 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png?resize=632,1024 632w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/students-cheer-1.png?resize=948,1536 948w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 632px) 100vw, 632px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Supporting_Patients_in_Clinical_Practice\"><\/span>Supporting Patients in Clinical Practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supporting patients with IAD requires <strong>validating their concerns<\/strong>, act<strong>ively listening<\/strong>, and <strong>setting appropriate boundaries<\/strong> in clinical care. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apaservices.org\/practice\/business\/management\/tips\/collaboration\">Clear communication<\/a> and <strong>collaboration between primary care and mental health providers<\/strong> are essential while maintaining <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apaservices.org\/practice\/business\/management\/tips\/collaboration\">patient confidentiality<\/a><\/strong> and understanding each provider\u2019s role. Remember, once <strong>IAD is diagnosed,<\/strong> <strong>regular follow-ups with a single provider<\/strong> help build a <strong>strong therapeutic alliance<\/strong>, reduce <strong>excessive healthcare utilization<\/strong>, and manage a patient\u2019s <strong>reassurance-seeking behaviors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Considerations_for_Health_Professionals\"><\/span>Considerations for Health Professionals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve focused a lot on how to support patients with <strong>health anxiety<\/strong>. Let\u2019s take some time to discuss <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5467659\/#s5\">the emotional and professional challenges<\/a>\u00a0of working with patients with IAD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Managing the care of patients with IAD can be <strong>challenging and emotionally demanding.<\/strong> Repeated reassurance requests and dissatisfaction with normal results can contribute to <strong>provider frustration and <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/burnout-in-the-medical-community\">burnout<\/a><\/strong>. These experiences can be exhausting, but try to remember how <strong>vulnerable and fearful <\/strong>the patient may feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Helpful strategies to manage frustration include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Clearly <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-build-learner-communication-skills-to-boost-clinical-competence\">communicating<\/a><\/strong><strong> <\/strong>with your patients<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creating a <strong>safe environment<\/strong> with clear expectations and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/osmosiss-top-3-tips-to-avoid-burnout#Tip_2_Set_Boundaries\">boundaries<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting<strong> support from peers or colleagues<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintaining <strong>empathy and professionalism<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prioritizing <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/category\/mental-health\">mental health education<\/a><\/strong><strong> <\/strong>(for your patients and yourself)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resources_for_Health_Professionals\"><\/span>Resources for Health Professionals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few helpful resources for learning more about Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD) so that you can stay updated and support your patients effectively:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">National Institutes of Health (NIH) Overview of IAD<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appi.org\/getattachment\/a2bbb441-5441-41ec-97eb-01001411a111\/APA-Publishing_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder_First_Learning-DSM-5-Case-Example.pdf\">American Psychiatric Association (APA) IAD Case Example<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/\">DSM-5 Criteria for IAD<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>IAD involves excessive fear of illness despite normal medical evaluations.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>To be diagnosed, symptoms must persist for six months and impact daily functioning.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CBT is a first-line treatment; SSRIs may be used concurrently.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Patient education and strong therapeutic alliances improve outcomes.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthcare providers should manage stress and set clear care boundaries with IAD patients.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resources\"><\/span>Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554399\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK519704\/table\/ch3.t32\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders\/overview-of-somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders\/overview-of-somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399921003512\">https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399921003512<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S002239991100211X#:~:text=Of%2043%2C205%20patients%20attending%20the,condition%20in%20general%20hospital%20settings.\">https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S002239991100211X#:~:text=Of%2043%2C205%20patients%20attending%20the,condition%20in%20general%20hospital%20settings.<\/a> &nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/17976-somatic-symptom-disorder-in-adults\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/17976-somatic-symptom-disorder-in-adults<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S016503272400747X\">https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S016503272400747X<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2\">https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11920-024-01507-2<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399917307201\">https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399917307201<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2741157\/\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2741157\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/stigma-and-discrimination\">https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/stigma-and-discrimination<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/illness-anxiety-disorder\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20373787\">https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/illness-anxiety-disorder\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20373787<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apaservices.org\/practice\/business\/management\/tips\/collaboration\">https:\/\/www.apaservices.org\/practice\/business\/management\/tips\/collaboration<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appi.org\/getattachment\/a2bbb441-5441-41ec-97eb-01001411a111\/APA-Publishing_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder_First_Learning-DSM-5-Case-Example.pdf\">https:\/\/www.appi.org\/getattachment\/a2bbb441-5441-41ec-97eb-01001411a111\/APA-Publishing_Illness_Anxiety_Disorder_First_Learning-DSM-5-Case-Example.pdf<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"http:\/\/osmosis.org\/plans\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png?w=700\" alt=\"ad\" class=\"wp-image-5904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Try&nbsp;<strong>Osmosis from Elsevier<\/strong>&nbsp;today! Access your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>free trial<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and discover why millions of current and future&nbsp;<strong>clinicians&nbsp;<\/strong>and&nbsp;<strong>caregivers&nbsp;<\/strong>love&nbsp;<strong>learning with us<\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Illness Anxiety Disorder (formerly known as hypochondria) causes persistent fear of serious illness despite normal tests. Discover causes, diagnosis, and management strategies to support affected patients.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":175,"featured_media":9136,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[27,10,21,867,28,30,16,37,32],"tags":[2582,796,673,1154,2115,2583,1146,2579,551,245,149,2584,2581,2580,2585],"class_list":["post-9133","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-clinical-skills","category-guides","category-lpn","category-mental-health","category-np","category-do","category-pa","category-nursing","tag-anxiety-treatment","tag-clinical-management","tag-cognitive-behavioral-therapy","tag-health-anxiety","tag-healthcare-provider","tag-hypochondriasis","tag-illness-anxiety-disorder","tag-mental-health-stigma","tag-mindfulness","tag-nursing-education","tag-patient-care","tag-psychosomatic-illness","tag-somatic-symptom-disorder","tag-ssris","tag-therapy-communication"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Understanding Illness Anxiety Disorder: A helpful guide for health professionals - Osmosis Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-illness-anxiety-disorder-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Understanding Illness Anxiety Disorder: A helpful guide for health professionals - Osmosis Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Illness Anxiety Disorder (formerly known as hypochondria) causes persistent fear of serious illness despite normal tests. 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