In this interesting case study from 2024, a 21-year-old woman developed illness anxiety disorder (IAD), formerly known as hypochondria, following a Helicobacter pylori infection.
In the case, even after the H. pylori infection was successfully treated, the patient’s anxiety persisted, affecting her daily life and leading to frequent medical visits and avoidance behaviors.
While the study also explored potential psychosocial risk factors that may contribute to developing IAD and discussed both pharmacological and psychological treatment options, this case underscores how physical health events, like infections, can sometimes trigger or exacerbate mental health conditions, emphasizing the importance of integrated care for both gut and mental health.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.52613
Reference
Labban S A, Murshid L, Yousef Alhazmi A, et al. (January 20, 2024) New-Onset Illness Anxiety Disorder After Helicobacter Pylori Infection: A Case Report. Cureus 16(1): e52613.