Medically Unexplained Symptoms
Many people have persistent physical complaints, such as dizziness or pain, that don't appear to be symptoms of a medical condition.
They are sometimes known as "medically unexplained symptoms" when they last for more than a few weeks, but doctors can't find a problem with the body that may be the cause.
This doesn't mean the symptoms are faked or "all in the head" – they're real and can affect your ability to function properly.
Not understanding the cause can make them even more distressing and difficult to cope with.
When mystery symptoms seem to be caused by problems in the nervous system but you don't have a specific neurological condition, doctors may refer to your symptoms as a ‘functional neurological disorder’.
Examples of such symptoms include:
- tingling in the hands or feet
- a tremor in one or both arms
- headaches or migraines
- changes in eyesight, like blurred vision or seeing flashing lights
Medically unexplained symptoms are common, with about 1 in 4 people who see a GP having physical symptoms that cannot be explained.
Possible causes of medically unexplained symptoms
Many people with medically unexplained symptoms, such as tiredness, pain and heart palpitations, also have depression or anxiety.
Treating an associated psychological problem can often relieve the physical symptoms.
For others, the symptoms may be part of a poorly understood syndrome, such as:
- chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) – also known as ME
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- fibromyalgia (pain all over the body)
The fact that doctors are unable to find a condition causing these symptoms isn't unusual in medicine, and it doesn't mean that nothing can be done to help you.
For more information on Medically Unexplained Symptoms, please visit the NHS 111 Wales website.
For further information please email: CTM.WISE@wales.nhs.uk or call us on 01685 351 451. Visit our website at: https://ctmuhb.nhs.wales/wise-ctm