New to somatoform disorder

[Tamster67]

I have been struggling with near-syncope events since 2003. EEG revealed abnormality in left temporal lobe(spikes and sharp waves) - diagnosis was epilepsy. Recently told to be suffering from somatoform disorder(undifferentiated somatization disorder) . Any help understanding this disorder would be appreciated. Currently scheduled to see psychiatrist, already saw psychologist 3 times for testing.

[Dr. Adams]

The diagnosis of somatoform disorder (actually a class of disorders) suggests that they believe that there is at least partial psychological causation for your symptoms such as a conflict, etc.

[Tamster67]

The Neurologist stated he thought I was suffering from conversion disorder; the psychologist thinks more along the undifferentiated somatoform but also mentioned anxiety disorder; the psychologist also stated I am having a major depressive episode. I thought the depression was born out of not knowing what was wrong with me and the countless tests and epilepsy medications but they feel it might actually be deeper than that.
Is this typical of how this type of disorder surfaces?
Thank you for the reply.

[Dr. Adams]

You should be discussing this with them, but for clarification...Conversion *is* a somatoform disorder, one of several. Undifferentiated means that you have symptoms of various somatoform disorders but not suffiicient to be diagnosed with just a specific one (not certain that matters).

Since depressed patients often somatize (have bodily complaints), it seems rather self-evident that someone with physical complaints would have depressed mood.

Additionally, individuals with conversion disorder are almost always characterized by their lack of (expected) depression.

I am hopeful that you are insuring that everyone remains on the same page. Whoever is the primary provider should be insuring that this occurs.

[Tamster67]

Thank you so much for the guidance, I had not even thought about my primary care Dr. so I will definitely make an appointment to make sure she is aware of the latest developments and treatment plans. I read the information on your site regarding the disorder and had one last question. Is the typical course of treatment for this problem psychotherapy combined with drug therapy? I know you cannot predict the outcome but in your studies is this combination usually effective in resolving the problem or at least helping it somewhat?
Thank you for your time.

[Dr. Adams]

It is the focus of my practice.

Many people improve rapidly and dramatically, but not everyone does so.

Medication is helpful when there is obsessive thinking and depressed mood; otherwise I have not found it effective.

[Tamster67]

Since this is the focus of your practice, is a referal required or could I self refer myself? I was unclear of how it works. Thanks again.

[Dr. Adams]

You have other needs you must address. You are already in care, need to have your care coordinated, and need a definitive diagnosis from the people whom you are now seeing.

[Tamster67]

Thank you for your insight and assistance. I am just a bit overwhelmed with everything that has been brought out of late and I sincerely appreciate your guidance. I will follow your advice. Thanks for your time.