Welcome to another edition of the Doctor’s Note where we talk about what’s on our minds when it comes to your health.
This week on the podcast I dive into a topic that’s been on my mind for a while - health anxiety. After reading a recent blog by Dr. Peter Attia, whom I highly respect, I felt compelled to share some insights that I think will resonate with many of you. We all have some level of concern about our health, and rightly so. But when that concern turns into excessive worry, it can do more harm than good.
We’re going to explore the fine line between being vigilant about your health and tipping over into what we call hypochondria, or health anxiety. Drawing from my experience as a family doctor, I’ll share how overemphasis on minor medical details can detract from your overall well-being, sometimes leading to increased stress and even higher mortality rates.
Let’s talk about when to worry - and when to let it go. Trust me, focusing on what really matters is what makes for a healthier, happier you.
PODCAST NOTES:
The relationship between health and anxiety and increased mortality is profound. When you’re overly anxious about your health, it can lead to chronic stress which impacts your body in various negative ways. This kind of behavior often results in unnecessary medical tests and procedures, straining both your well-being and the healthcare system.
Now, here’s something crucial - finding the right balance between traditional and alternative medicine. I always advocate for the middle ground where you benefit from the best practices of both worlds. Too much of either can lead to missed diagnoses or unnecessary treatments. Keeping a balanced perspective is essential for a holistic approach to health.
It’s incredibly important to focus on what truly matters for your health. I’ve seen patients fixate on small variations in their health metrics while neglecting more significant health risks. For example, worrying about a slight fluctuation in a hormone level while continuing harmful habits like smoking. Focus on the big picture and what’s genuinely impactful.
Trusting your family doctor is key. As primary care physicians, we get to know you and your family over time, enabling us to make informed decisions about your health. Our role is to help you distinguish between real health concerns and those that may be more anxiety-driven. Personalized care is at the heart of good medical practice.
Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can have cascading effects on your health. Chronic cortisol elevation can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to various illnesses, and cause insulin resistance, which is a precursor to many metabolic diseases like heart disease and hypertension. Managing stress is pivotal for keeping these at bay.
Hypochondria, or health anxiety, is much more common than you might think and often goes undiagnosed. Studies have shown that individuals with this condition have significantly higher mortality rates due to both natural and unnatural causes. Addressing this anxiety is crucial to improving life expectancy and quality of life.
While medications can be necessary in some cases, many times, anxiety can be more effectively managed through practical, natural means: regular exercise, consuming whole foods, ensuring adequate sleep, and fostering good relationships. These lifestyle changes can significantly alleviate anxiety without the side effects that sometimes accompany medications.
It’s vital to target the root causes of your anxiety. Seeking help from mental health professionals and engaging in therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be incredibly beneficial. Understanding and addressing what’s driving your anxiety can help you manage it better and improve your overall well-being. Remember, it’s not just about treating symptoms, it’s about addressing the core issues.
To wrap it up, keep these points in mind as you navigate your health journey. Trust your healthcare provider, stay balanced in your approach, and prioritize what truly matters. Think about your health span, not just your lifespan. All of us will eventually reach the end of our lives, so let’s make the journey along the way as healthy and enjoyable as possible. If you think you might be overdoing it with health concerns, talk honestly with your provider and if needed, consider seeking help for anxiety.
Stay educated. Stay healthy.
Till next week.
P.S. Please share this with anyone you think might benefit.
