Is it likely for someone with hypochondria to actually have an​ illness?

[Louisamith]

I'm looking for some reassurance, as I am a 17-year-old girl, who has a history of health anxiety. Over the past two years, I have been worried I have schizophrenia, a brain tumor, and the fear that has really stuck with me over this time and the one I can't seem to shake is the fear that I have multiple sclerosis.

I have not had any testing done for MS, so no MRI's lumbar puncture etc so, therefore, have never really been completely assured I do not have it. I have been to the doctors a couple of times and have been given a basic neurological test but have not been referred to a neurologist. I have, however, been referred to a psychologist which I have not been too as I do not believe my symptoms are psychosomatic in nature.

Some of the symptoms that have been more or less constant for the past month are:

- Tingling in the left side of my left foot which is there from morning till night and worsens with heat

- Constant tingling in left side of left hand much like my left foot

- Small 'buzzing' patch under my left knee

- Have experienced moments where the room looks 'smokey' in the presence of NO smoke, wondering whether this is optic neuritis

- Cannot sit in any position for a prolonged period without limbs going numb

- Did experience numb left big toe for 1-2 weeks

- Legs feel 'numb' and rubbery when running

- And in the past few days, my legs have felt extremely weak

I am worried because having sensory symptoms in multiple locations, or the reoccurrence of similar symptoms in different locations is a hallmark symptom of MS. However I am reluctant to visit the doctor again as I have a past history of health anxiety...

So was just wondering how uncommon, if at all, would it be possible for someone with health anxiety to actually have the illness they are worried about? Thanks

[iRenaissance]

I have also had tingling n a bit of a numbing feeling in my left hand and foot which I think plays a part as a symptom of being anxious but if you've had it for such a long period maybe talk to your doctor to see if they can refer you to a neurologist?

[Anxious2befree]

I have suffered health anxiety for 3 years yet don't get those symptoms you have listed. Others get numbness and tingling but I haven't personally experienced that. Talk to your doctor and it may help to see the psychologist as he/she may be able to help you with your symptoms as in how to deal with it and manage it.