Read on Twitter
Short but helpful read. Especially like points 3 and 5. I tend to use the term "somatization" with families instead of functional since it can be applied more broadly to other sources of pain (e.g. headache) or symptoms (fatigue, dizziness, brain fog etc). https://twitter.com/CMAJ/status/1333818462519562246
But IBS, functional, chronic fatigue are all really describing the same process and highlight the power of the mind body connection. Somatic symptoms are physical manifestations of emotion.
These are normal and experienced by all (eg butterflies in your stomach when nervous or blushing when embarrassed). But it's not normal for these to occur daily or impact function (hence, the term functional pain).
Most clinicians know from the very first appointment whether a child's symptoms are related to somatization. Just because something is "medically unexplained" doesnt mean you shouldn't explain to the family what you think/know is going on
Even when completing a medical workup, I will discuss somatization/conversion d/o upfront, either as the primary diagnosis or a concurrent one. Helps families know that you are taking a true biopsychosocial approach and that this diagnosis was on your differential from the start
There are great resources from @AboutKidsHealth and Kelty Mental Health for physicians, families, and teens on somatization.
Somatization/conversion disorder are so common, so it's a good investment of time to read and empower yourself/families
Somatization/conversion disorder are so common, so it's a good investment of time to read and empower yourself/families
