What Is Illness Anxiety Disorder?

Potential Complications

Swift, effective treatment is important for patients with IAD because, beyond the excessive distressing thoughts about contracting or having a serious illness, there are numerous complications associated with this condition. Some individuals with IAD, for instance, may experience suicidal thoughts, particularly if their IAD is connected to clinical depression. Other complications of IAD include expensive medical bills stemming from the overuse of medical services, an increased risk of complications from medical tests, problems in personal and professional relationships, as well as unemployment or disability. As such, it is important to seek professional assistance when excessive worry hits. This applies even if the formal diagnosis points to a condition other than IAD.