Hypochondriasis is an abnormal fear of having a serious medical condition. This concern persists even though medical exams rule out any actual illness.
People who have this condition feel very anxious. They suffer from physical symptoms even though there is no physical illness present. Individuals with this condition continue to believe they are seriously ill even when the healthcare provider tells them they are well.
This condition occurs in both men and women. It is not clear what causes the problem. This condition may occur more often in people who: