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Disease and infection related phobia
I have various disease and infection related phobia. Every time I check myself weather I am feeling any pain in my chest or not. Regarding any blood test or injection I always think that the opposite person has changed the needle or not. Again and again I just want to take the reassurance by asking him. If I come in little close contact with any street dog, I always think that I may get rabies. One mind always thinks that nothing has happened, if I catch any dog bite or scratch then of course I should feel that. But the other mind always tells me that something wrong has happened. So I need to check my leg again and again, need to check my cloths and jeans , if there is any mark that I am missing. It's really very difficult to deal with this situation. I am loosing my body weight also. This situation is constantly hampering my peace of mind.
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Thanks for reaching out! It sounds like you have been going through a lot. Although the theme of your symptoms revolves mostly around infections, I sense a general preoccupation with having or fear of acquiring a serious illness (infective or otherwise). Differential for your condition remains broad at this time and would need much more in depth clarification of symptoms with a neuropsychatrist. However, given what you have shared so far, it sounds like you maybe experiencing a condition known as an illness anxiety disorder. This condition generally encompasses range of symptoms including but not limited to a). Preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness. b) If mild symptoms are present, the preoccupation with them is clearly excessive or disproportionate. c). There is a high level of anxiety about health, and the individual is easily alarmed about personal health status. d). The individual performs excessive health-related behaviors (eg, repeatedly checks his or her body for signs of illness) or exhibits maladaptive avoidance (eg, avoids doctor appointments and hospitals). e). Illness preoccupation has been present for at least six months, but the specific illness that is feared may change over that period of time. There are certain conditions that may need to be ruled out before ascertaining the above diagnosis, for eg: somatic symptom disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or delusional disorder, somatic type. What appears to be reassuring is that you seem to have a pretty good insight about what could be potentially going on and are willing to get help! I hope that was helpful, please don't hesitate to reach out in the future!
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If this somewhat captured what you maybe going through, good news it that you can get help. Reach out to your neuropsychiatrist (inperson or via tele consultation) at your convenience.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.