Can meditation or CBT cure HIV phobia and body burning?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had an HIV phobia for the past four years. My only sexual exposure was 10 years ago. Four years ago, I got tested for HIV multiple times using rapid tests and Tridot tests, and all the results were negative.

However, for the last four years, I have been experiencing a constant burning sensation throughout my body. I consulted a neurologist and underwent an NCV test, which came back normal. My vitamin B12 and D3 levels are also normal.

I have been under psychiatric treatment for these symptoms for the past 3 years, but there has been no relief. The psychiatrist prescribed me Amixide, Predulox 50 mg, Etnizex LS, and Zapiz 0.25 mg.

Doctor, is this the right treatment for my burning sensation (which I was told could be due to somatization disorder)? Please let me know whether practices like meditation or yoga can help improve or cure these symptoms. I have already changed 5 psychiatrists in the last 3 years, but I still have not found relief. Please help.

Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

With your negative HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) test results, the most likely cause of your physical symptoms is illness anxiety disorder (where a person constantly worries about having a serious illness despite medical reassurance) or bodily distress disorder (also known as somatic symptom disorder), where emotional distress causes physical symptoms without any identifiable medical reason.

Your psychiatrists have prescribed good medicines, and these are standard treatments recommended to reduce anxiety and associated physical sensations.

However, one important component is missing in your treatment: CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness exercises. These are considered the first-line treatments. There is strong evidence from research supporting the effectiveness of these therapies, often even more than medicines alone.

Yes, meditation and yoga are highly beneficial and have proven health benefits. They are evidence-based and form a part of mindfulness practices and CBT. Many research studies have confirmed their effectiveness in reducing anxiety and improving physical well-being.

My honest suggestion is not to keep changing psychiatrists. I understand that you have not found much relief yet, but frequently changing doctors would not help your recovery. Continue taking your medicines, as they are useful, and combine them with CBT and mindfulness exercises, such as:

Progressive muscle relaxation (a technique where you slowly tense and relax different muscle groups to reduce physical tension).
Deep breathing exercises help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.

These techniques are easily available online. They take some time to show results, but with regular practice, you will gradually notice improvement.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to discuss them.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.