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What are the somatic symptoms in adolescents?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Somatic symptoms in adolescents include gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory abnormalities, musculoskeletal pain, neurological manifestations, and skin or sensory disturbances. These are often associated with psychological stress and emotional distress, without clear evidence of organic pathology. If symptoms persist for more than one month and interfere with daily functioning, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Physical symptoms in adolescents may include discomfort in the digestive system, respiratory abnormalities, musculoskeletal pain, neurological manifestations, and skin or sensory disturbances. These are often related to psychological stress and emotional distress, with no clear evidence of organic disease. If symptoms persist for more than one month and affect daily functioning, timely medical evaluation is recommended.

1. Digestive system discomfort: Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or alternating diarrhea and constipation. Symptoms may worsen after eating. Medical examinations reveal no definitive gastrointestinal diseases and these issues are often linked to academic pressure and anxiety.

2. Respiratory system abnormalities: Manifest as chest tightness, shortness of breath, a feeling of inadequate air intake, and frequent sighing. Some adolescents may experience hyperventilation, especially during periods of tension or high stress. Pulmonary examinations show no significant abnormalities.

3. Musculoskeletal pain: Often presents as headaches, neck, shoulder, back, or joint pain, with shifting locations and variable intensity. Pain may improve with activity and there is no evidence of trauma or organic conditions such as arthritis.

4. Neurological manifestations: Include dizziness, lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, memory decline, insomnia, or excessive sleepiness. Some adolescents may also experience hand tremors, fatigue, or abnormal sensations, which are closely associated with emotional fluctuations and sleep disturbances.

5. Skin and sensory abnormalities: Commonly involve skin itching, rashes, hair loss, blurred vision, tinnitus, or a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. No clear pathology in the skin or sensory organs is found upon examination, and symptoms often fluctuate with emotional changes.

Treatment should incorporate psychological interventions to relieve emotional stress, with medication used when necessary to regulate nervous system function. It is important to pay attention to adolescents' mental health, encourage open expression of feelings, foster a relaxed family environment, ensure adequate sleep, and promote moderate physical activity to help alleviate physical symptoms.

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