health anxiety

Health anxiety is a persistent fear or worry about having or developing a serious illness, often despite little or no medical evidence.  Individuals may frequently check their body for symptoms, seek reassurance from doctors, loved ones, and the internet, or avoid medical settings altogether due to fear. 
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These worries can feel very real and overwhelming, interfering with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.  
  • Fear of serious illness (e.g. cancer, brain tumors, heart disease)
  • Heightened awareness of bodily sensations like headaches, dizziness, or muscle twitches
  • Cardiac concerns, such as interpreting a racing or skipping heartbeat as a heart attack
  • Neurological fears, including worries about ALS, MS or stroke after noticing minor symptoms
  • Fear of missed diagnosis, despite medical reassurance
  • Excessive checking such as body scanning, Googling symptoms, repeatedly taking vitals