Which term describes a condition of excessive preoccupation with health signs and symptoms?

The term that best describes a condition of excessive preoccupation with health signs and symptoms is hypochondria, also known as illness anxiety disorder. Individuals with hypochondria often misinterpret normal bodily sensations or minor symptoms as significant health issues. This condition leads to excessive worry about having a serious illness, even in the absence of actual disease.

Somatic delusions refer to false beliefs that one has a serious physical illness, often without the excessive worry characteristic of hypochondria. While there may be some overlap between these two conditions, hypochondria specifically emphasizes a heightened anxiety and frequent concern about health that drives the behavior and thoughts of the individual.

Anxiety disorder covers a broader range of conditions that may feature excessive worry, but it isn't specifically focused on health concerns. Psychotic disorder involves a loss of contact with reality, which is distinct from the intense focus on health seen in hypochondria. Understanding the nuances of these terms is crucial for identifying and treating conditions related to health anxiety effectively.