Living with a Physical Medical Condition

Physical illness, such as cancer, neurological conditions, lung conditions, heart conditions or surgical procedures, can give rise to significant distress, which may progress to more serious psychological conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

When patients are struggling to manage their medical or surgical condition, it is important that psychological distress is recognised and treated appropriately which can aid recovery. Common medical conditions that can occur in conjunction with psychological disorders include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), migraine, chest pain, pain, and chronic fatigue.

Alternatively, psychological distress may present with physical symptoms, such as palpitations, chest pain, seizures, sensory loss, dizziness, abdominal pain or change in bowel habit. Once organic causes have been excluded, it is important not to dismiss such symptoms, as they are often a manifestation of anxiety, stress, depression or somatisation disorder, which are eminently treatable.

The Sloane Court Clinic has doctors with particular expertise in the care of those who experience psychological difficulties as a result of physical illness or, conversely, experience physical symptoms due to underlying psychological stress. We can support and treat such difficulties using an integrated approach, in close liasion with your specialist.