What does somatization mean?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Somatization is a condition in which psychological factors cause physical discomfort. Patients may experience various bodily symptoms, but medical examinations typically fail to identify clear organic abnormalities. In such cases, attention should be paid to emotional well-being. Stress can be relieved through exercise, talking with others, and engaging in hobbies. When necessary, professional psychological intervention should be sought to help restore balance to both mind and body.

　　Somatization is a manifestation of physical discomfort caused by psychological factors, in which patients experience various bodily symptoms, yet medical examinations typically fail to identify any clear organic abnormalities. A detailed analysis is as follows:

　　Symptoms of somatization are diverse and commonly include headaches, chest tightness, palpitations, gastrointestinal discomfort, and others. These symptoms recur frequently but lack physiological or pathological basis. For example, some individuals suffer long-term from stomach pain and bloating, yet endoscopic examinations show no abnormalities in the gastric or intestinal mucosa. Others frequently experience dizziness and fatigue, despite normal blood pressure and routine blood test results. The emergence of these symptoms is closely related to psychological state; when emotions such as anxiety, depression, or chronic stress cannot be effectively managed at the psychological level, they may manifest as physical discomfort.

　　The occurrence of somatization is associated with psychological regulation ability and life experiences. Individuals who are chronically exposed to high-pressure environments or who have sensitive, introverted personalities are more prone to such manifestations. In dealing with these conditions, attention should be paid to emotional well-being. Stress can be released through physical activity, talking with others, or engaging in hobbies. When necessary, professional psychological intervention should be sought to help restore balance to both mind and body.

View All

Can patients with somatization disorder take venlafaxine?

Venlafaxine hydrochloride, as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, improves mood and anxiety symptoms by modulating neurotransmitter levels, and has a certain alleviating effect on physical discomfort caused by somatoform disorders. If a patient presents with depressed mood, anxiety accompanied by recurrent somatic symptoms, and meets the clinical indications for medication after evaluation, the physician may consider it as one of the treatment options.

View Full Answer

Is Shugan Granule effective for somatization disorder?

In general, the effectiveness of Shugan Granules in patients with somatization disorder should be determined based on specific causes and symptoms. Close attention should be paid to the patient's emotional state, and stimuli that may trigger emotional fluctuations should be avoided. Accompany the patient in maintaining a regular作息 (daily routine), eating a light and balanced diet, and reducing spicy and greasy foods. Encourage mild activities such as moderate walking and listening to soothing music to help relieve stress.

View Full Answer

What causes numbness in hands and feet in depression, and what should be done about it?

In general, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet of patients with depression may be caused by factors such as hyperventilation leading to alkalosis, poor circulation due to prolonged physical inactivity, depressive disorder associated with adjustment disorder, somatization of depression, or depression complicated by peripheral neuropathy. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general measures, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance.

View Full Answer

How to get rid of obsessive urges to urinate

In general, frequent urination compulsions may be caused by poor urination habits, hypersensitive neural perception, acute cystitis, anxiety disorder with somatization, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general management, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid excessive consumption of diuretic beverages such as coffee and strong tea.