By Dr. Claudia Murton
Consultant Psychiatrist, Porthia Cornwall Mental Health Clinic
Have you ever experienced physical symptoms that medical tests couldn’t fully explain? You’re not alone. As a consultant psychiatrist working in liaison psychiatry, I frequently meet people struggling with persistent physical symptoms (PPS), previously known as medically unexplained symptoms. These very real physical experiences can significantly impact daily life, yet traditional medical investigations often draw a blank. They are also called functional symptoms, as they are a problem with the way the nervous system is functioning rather than a problem like a tumour or a stroke.
What Are Persistent Physical Symptoms?
Persistent physical symptoms are genuine physical experiences that can include:
- Chronic pain
- Fatigue
- Digestive problems
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Muscle weakness
- Heart palpitations
What makes these symptoms unique is that standard medical tests may not reveal a clear underlying physical cause. This can leave many people feeling frustrated, misunderstood, or even doubting themselves. However, modern medicine is increasingly recognizing that these symptoms represent a complex interaction between physical and psychological processes.
The Mind-Body Connection
One of the most significant breakthroughs in understanding PPS has been recognizing that the traditional separation between “physical” and “mental” health is artificial. Our bodies and minds are intricately connected through various systems:
- The nervous system
- Hormones
- The immune system
- Stress responses
When one system is affected, it can create a cascade of changes throughout the body. This explains why stress, anxiety, or past experiences can manifest as very real physical symptoms. People with neurodiversity may also experience sensory input differently to others and may be more prone to persistent physical symptoms.
Modern Treatment Approaches
The good news is that we now have effective treatment approaches for persistent physical symptoms. Modern care typically involves:
- Validation and Understanding: Acknowledging that symptoms are real and impact daily life
- Education: Learning about how the body and mind interact
- Physical Rehabilitation: Gradually building movement and activity in a supported way
- Psychological Approaches: Developing resilience and understanding personal triggers
- Lifestyle Management: Improving sleep, exercise, and stress management
Why This Matters
As a doctor with experience in both physical and mental healthcare, I’ve seen how transformative the right support can be. When we understand that persistent physical symptoms aren’t “all in your head” but rather a complex interaction of physical and psychological processes, we open the door to more effective management.
Moving Forward
If you’re experiencing persistent physical symptoms, remember:
- Your symptoms are real
- You’re not alone
- Help is available
- Understanding the mind-body connection is key to recovery
Modern healthcare is moving away from the artificial divide between physical and mental health. At Porthia Cornwall Mental Health Clinic, we recognise the importance of treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.
Getting Support
If you’re struggling with persistent physical symptoms, seeking support from healthcare professionals who understand the complexity of these conditions is crucial. A combined approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects often leads to the best outcomes.
Dr. Claudia Murton is a Consultant Psychiatrist with over 19 years of medical experience, specialising in liaison psychiatry and the management of persistent physical symptoms. She combines NHS expertise with private practice at Porthia Cornwall Mental Health Clinic to offer assessment and treatments plans for Persistent Physical Symptoms.
Certain factors may affect your vulnerability to stress. These can include:
- genetics
- level of social support
- coping style
- personality type
- discrimination due to race, gender, or perceived gender, LBGTQIA+, socioeconomic status, or other factors
- childhood trauma
- your profession
Minimizing the chronic stress of daily life as much as possible can support your overall health. Chronic stress can increase your risk of health conditions, including heart disease, anxiety disorders, and depression.
