Could my family member be a hypochondriac?

Question

My paternal grandmother is 83 years old. Last year she had some surgery because she had some fluid retention in her brain (hydrocephalus).We think that she may be in the early stages of Alzheimer's.

But, there is one health condition she seems to be suffering from. Certain days she is fine, but some days she suffers from a period where she has shortness of breath and it gets so bad she is hospitalized. Other days her breathing is normal. She has been to several doctors but they can not find anything physically wrong with her. Is there a possibility she could be a hypochondriac?

Lives with younger sister, who seems overprotective of her; been retired for a while but not involved in many activities mainly because she has no means of getting most places(she can walk but she does have some problems when she walks). At times, she does not have anyone who can do things for her. I am confused about everything so I do not know what to do.

Answer 1

I doubt she is being a hypochondriac; shortness of breath is pretty hard to fake, though her being worried about might exacerbate it, panic attack of sorts. So it could be that or just that doctor's don't know; they are not infalliable and when someone gets to that age, things just start to break down, it isnt always a specific disorder.


I don't know how old you are but mayb go round once a week and help her with a few things, just chat and she will feel better, she may not be arounf for so much longer so make the most of your time with her :)

Answer 2

If your grandmother has had hydrocephalus and is 83 years old she may be experiencing more problems with that condition which are just surfacing. This is a whole different medical condition than Alzheimer's or hypochondria.
Give her the benefit of not labeling her with these diagnostic terms. Once a person is even suggested to have something it interferes with the ability of the Medical Profession to diagnose clearly. It changes peoples perception of the person so labeled.

Answer 3

NOT hypochondriasis. Your grandmother is suffering from an undiagnosed disorder. Try another type of doctor; maybe a Naturopathic Physician or Chiropractor.