Body symptoms with normal tests
बिना वजह के शारीरिक लक्षण
Stress and emotions can produce real physical symptoms. When repeated tests are normal, psychiatric care can bring relief.
The pain is real — it is not 'imagined'. Treatment works on how the brain processes signals.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Body pain, headache, burning hands and feet
- Gas, acidity, heaviness in stomach
- Weakness, tiredness, 'nerves are weak' feeling
- Constant fear of a serious disease
- Many doctor visits and tests that are normal
Causes
- Stress, anxiety or depression expressed through the body
- Increased sensitivity of pain pathways
- Past illness or a family member's serious illness
Risk factors
- Ongoing stress, anxiety or depression
- Past serious illness or many medical investigations
- Difficulty putting feelings into words
How it is diagnosed
- Reviewing previous reports so that physical illness is properly excluded
- Understanding how much time, worry and disability the symptoms cause
- The PHQ-15 questionnaire to measure body-symptom burden
Classification: ICD-10 F45 · ICD-11 6C20ICD-11 uses the term "bodily distress disorder".
Treatment options
- 1Careful review of reports — avoiding unnecessary repeated tests
- 2Medicines that reduce pain sensitivity and anxiety
- 3CBT and relaxation for the mind–body cycle
- 4Graded activity and exercise
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT to reduce symptom focus, checking and avoidance of activity
- Graded return to activity and stress-management skills
Guidance for family
- Believe that the symptoms are real; avoid saying "it's all in your head"
- Support one consistent doctor instead of many different hospitals
When to see a psychiatrist
- Symptoms continue despite normal tests
- Health worry takes over daily life
- Painkiller use is increasing
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
My pain is real — why see a psychiatrist?
Because the brain controls how pain is felt. Treating stress and pain pathways reduces real pain.
Will I need more tests?
Only if clinically needed. Your existing reports are reviewed first.
Is this the same as 'weak nerves'?
'Weak nerves' is a common way of describing anxiety and fatigue. It is treatable.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.