Tanya Dutt

Consequences, Challenges And Impact Of Medically Unexplained Symptoms

<span>Medically unexplained symptoms</span> are one of the medical mysteries, and millions of people worldwide are suffering from it. It is confusing, alarming, and at times debilitating; however, it does present some complexities within human health and the limits of medical understanding. Although symptoms are real, they rarely have a definite physiological cause, which sometimes makes a patient frustrated and misunderstands this situation, resulting in social stigma.

Medically unexplained symptoms are persistent physical sensations people face but which cannot be determined by any biological or medical reason, even after full medical assessment. Although their real and disruptive effects on the quality of life of an individual, <span>MUS</span> leave patients feeling marginalized, unheard, or doubted by medical practitioners. These symptoms include pain, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, chest pain, heart palpitations, breathlessness, numbness, and tingling.

Recent statistics in the United States report that MUS accounts for up to 40% of primary care visits; however, only 25% of these will eventually disclose a biological cause. Such figures illustrate exactly how prevalent but elusive these illnesses are to the medical provider as well as the patient themselves. The complexity of these symptoms is derived from a combination of psychological, neurological, and physiological factors, often blurring into an un-decipherable puzzle for the medical world and the individuals concerned. Consequences of Medically Unexplained Symptoms 

Medically unexplained symptoms often result in emotional, financial, and social difficulties.

Most patients with MUS have complained of frustration, isolation, and anxiety as a result of their persistent health conditions. Because symptoms persist without obvious causation, they tend to strain personal relationships, affect communication in social interactions, and generate more professional problems. The economic loss will also be significant since patients suffering with MUS are predisposed to taking long-term sickness leaves, unemployment is considerably higher, and they need repeated diagnostic tests, especially those that may come through other avenues but cannot here produce answers. 

The cost of medically unexplained symptoms not only lies in the repeated trips to healthcare providers but also with the number of tests involved, which are costly and very often do not reveal the exact cause of the problem. Such financial burden can be crushing in some scenarios, especially when patients find themselves in a situation in which they cannot get any care or get misdiagnosed multiple times. The other challenge gaslighting exacerbates is the emotional challenges. 

Gaslighting happens when the health practitioners dismiss the physical complaints from patients or reduce them and make attributions that suggest psychological and stress-related issues, yet fail to do investigations properly. Patients become invalid, mis-appreciated, and powerless and sink further into suffering, leading to a loss of trust in the care that the medical professions can give. 

<h2>Breaking the Myths of "It's All in Your Head</h2>

Medically unexplained symptoms is one of the damaging concepts that have surrounded this aspect with the misconception that they are psychological or even imaginary. Many patients have reported hearing that their symptoms are mere "in the head." That can lead to feelings of shame and self-doubt. However, MUS is a real condition with a massive impact on daily functioning in any individual.

The National Health Service (NHS) estimates that 1 in 4 consultations with a general practitioner (GP) is based on symptoms that do not have an obvious medical cause.

However, real as these symptoms may be, they often have their roots in the complex interplay of physical and psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, or unresolved emotional stress.

Current studies suggest that the brain works in ways that process specific somatic sensations, which convert stress or emotional issues into somatic manifestations without apparent biological origin. Patients should not be made to feel their symptoms are being dismissed or minimized by such misconceptions. 

Growing awareness and education of MUS will help break down such stigma and help approach diagnosis and treatment more humanely and comprehensively.

<h2>Root Cause of Medically Unexplained Symptoms</h2> 

Despite lack of apparent physical cause, research indicates that psychological and emotional factors could have a considerable impact on the onset and maintenance of such symptoms. For instance, those who suffer from depression or anxiety are more likely to report symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, pain, or heart palpitations, all of which can be manifestations of MUS. These psychological conditions affect how the brain interprets the signals it receives about the physical condition, thus creating an intensified loop of <span>chronic pain</span>.

This may, therefore, mean that other factors like stress, trauma, or even unresolved emotional conflict may come out in physical symptoms without an apparent medical condition. This connection points to the fact that mind and body are not separated but rather connected and should be given equal importance when looking at a patient's health journey.

Lifestyle changes, poor sleep, hormonal imbalances, and immune system dysfunction are other factors that can complicate or contribute to medically unexplained symptoms. These may not always be easy to detect through standard medical examinations, further emphasizing the challenges both patients and physicians face. 

<h2>Medically Unexplained Symptoms: Treatment and Strategies</h2>

Diagnosis of MUS presents a challenge, but evidence-based treatments exist. In most evidence-based treatments, both somatic symptoms and the underlying psycho-emotional issues are addressed, and among them is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has come to show great promise to manage MUS by offering ways of helping people notice their triggers, cope with stressful situations, and changing thought patters that could be partly responsible for chronic symptoms.

Treatment plans may also include multidisciplinary care, including mental health professionals, pain specialists, and primary care physicians. In order to achieve recovery and management in the long term, comprehensive approaches that look into both physical and emotional well-being are critical.

If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms that remain unexplained, then you need to advocate for yourself. This can include asking questions about testing strategies, exploring further specialist referrals, and seeking a second opinion if needed. Knowing more about MUS empowers you to take an active role in your health journey.

<h2>Examples of Medically Unexplained Symptoms</h2>

According to the NHS, common medically unexplained symptoms include: 

Less common medically unexplained symptoms may include: 

<h2>Can More Awareness Create Better Diagnosis?</h2>

If you have medically unexplained symptoms, first, acknowledge that you are not alone. Many people are on this journey, and understanding your symptoms can help reduce feelings of frustration and isolation. Do not hesitate to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore treatment options. It may be helpful to engage with advocacy groups, peer support networks, or mental health professionals who can provide additional assistance and emotional guidance.

Moreover, health care professionals should become more empathetic and holistic in their diagnoses and treatments of MUS. Time pressures, fiscal considerations, and other factors may cloud clear diagnostic conclusions. A patient-centered, holistic approach—where listening, empathy, and collaboration take center stage—can mean all the difference between suffering and successful treatment. 

Medically unexplained symptoms are a multifaceted, complex health issue with deep implications on a patient's emotional, physical, and financial well-being.

While it may be overwhelming to live with persistent symptoms without clear causes, education, awareness, and compassionate medical care pave the way for better understanding and improved management.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

medically unexplained symptoms

chronic pain

gaslighting in medicine

unexplained physical symptoms

diagnostic challenges

psychological factors and symptoms

Your Hormones Could Actually Help Keep Your Bones Strong After Menopause

Did You Know? THESE Additives In Your Ultra-processed Foods Could Increase Risk Of Death

Study Reveals Why Autism in Over-40s Rarely Gets Recognised

Health & Wellness

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

Immune-Boosting Foods To Have During Rainy Season

Potato Based Dishes You For Week-Long Meal Prep

Weight Loss Dishes With Fruits You Should Try

Stress Vs. Anxiety: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

Medically unexplained symptoms are one of the medical mysteries, and millions of people worldwide are suffering from it. It is confusing, alarming, and at times debilitating; however, it does present some complexities within human health and the limits of medical understanding. Although symptoms are real, they rarely have a definite physiological cause, which sometimes makes a patient frustrated and misunderstands this situation, resulting in social stigma.Medically unexplained symptoms are persistent physical sensations people face but which cannot be determined by any biological or medical reason, even after full medical assessment. Although their real and disruptive effects on the quality of life of an individual, MUS leave patients feeling marginalized, unheard, or doubted by medical practitioners. These symptoms include pain, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, chest pain, heart palpitations, breathlessness, numbness, and tingling.Recent statistics in the United States report that MUS accounts for up to 40% of primary care visits; however, only 25% of these will eventually disclose a biological cause. Such figures illustrate exactly how prevalent but elusive these illnesses are to the medical provider as well as the patient themselves. The complexity of these symptoms is derived from a combination of psychological, neurological, and physiological factors, often blurring into an un-decipherable puzzle for the medical world and the individuals concerned. Consequences of Medically Unexplained Symptoms Medically unexplained symptoms often result in emotional, financial, and social difficulties.Most patients with MUS have complained of frustration, isolation, and anxiety as a result of their persistent health conditions. Because symptoms persist without obvious causation, they tend to strain personal relationships, affect communication in social interactions, and generate more professional problems. The economic loss will also be significant since patients suffering with MUS are predisposed to taking long-term sickness leaves, unemployment is considerably higher, and they need repeated diagnostic tests, especially those that may come through other avenues but cannot here produce answers. The cost of medically unexplained symptoms not only lies in the repeated trips to healthcare providers but also with the number of tests involved, which are costly and very often do not reveal the exact cause of the problem. Such financial burden can be crushing in some scenarios, especially when patients find themselves in a situation in which they cannot get any care or get misdiagnosed multiple times. The other challenge gaslighting exacerbates is the emotional challenges. Gaslighting happens when the health practitioners dismiss the physical complaints from patients or reduce them and make attributions that suggest psychological and stress-related issues, yet fail to do investigations properly. Patients become invalid, mis-appreciated, and powerless and sink further into suffering, leading to a loss of trust in the care that the medical professions can give. Breaking the Myths of "It's All in Your HeadMedically unexplained symptoms is one of the damaging concepts that have surrounded this aspect with the misconception that they are psychological or even imaginary. Many patients have reported hearing that their symptoms are mere "in the head." That can lead to feelings of shame and self-doubt. However, MUS is a real condition with a massive impact on daily functioning in any individual.The National Health Service (NHS) estimates that 1 in 4 consultations with a general practitioner (GP) is based on symptoms that do not have an obvious medical cause.However, real as these symptoms may be, they often have their roots in the complex interplay of physical and psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, or unresolved emotional stress.Current studies suggest that the brain works in ways that process specific somatic sensations, which convert stress or emotional issues into somatic manifestations without apparent biological origin. Patients should not be made to feel their symptoms are being dismissed or minimized by such misconceptions. Growing awareness and education of MUS will help break down such stigma and help approach diagnosis and treatment more humanely and comprehensively.Root Cause of Medically Unexplained Symptoms Despite lack of apparent physical cause, research indicates that psychological and emotional factors could have a considerable impact on the onset and maintenance of such symptoms. For instance, those who suffer from depression or anxiety are more likely to report symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, pain, or heart palpitations, all of which can be manifestations of MUS. These psychological conditions affect how the brain interprets the signals it receives about the physical condition, thus creating an intensified loop of chronic pain.This may, therefore, mean that other factors like stress, trauma, or even unresolved emotional conflict may come out in physical symptoms without an apparent medical condition. This connection points to the fact that mind and body are not separated but rather connected and should be given equal importance when looking at a patient's health journey.Lifestyle changes, poor sleep, hormonal imbalances, and immune system dysfunction are other factors that can complicate or contribute to medically unexplained symptoms. These may not always be easy to detect through standard medical examinations, further emphasizing the challenges both patients and physicians face. Medically Unexplained Symptoms: Treatment and StrategiesDiagnosis of MUS presents a challenge, but evidence-based treatments exist. In most evidence-based treatments, both somatic symptoms and the underlying psycho-emotional issues are addressed, and among them is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has come to show great promise to manage MUS by offering ways of helping people notice their triggers, cope with stressful situations, and changing thought patters that could be partly responsible for chronic symptoms.Treatment plans may also include multidisciplinary care, including mental health professionals, pain specialists, and primary care physicians. In order to achieve recovery and management in the long term, comprehensive approaches that look into both physical and emotional well-being are critical.If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms that remain unexplained, then you need to advocate for yourself. This can include asking questions about testing strategies, exploring further specialist referrals, and seeking a second opinion if needed. Knowing more about MUS empowers you to take an active role in your health journey.Examples of Medically Unexplained SymptomsAccording to the NHS, common medically unexplained symptoms include: - Muscle or joint pain - Back pain - Headaches - Fatigue or tiredness - Feeling faint - Chest pain - Heart palpitations - Stomach-related issues Less common medically unexplained symptoms may include: - Seizures or fits - Breathlessness - Weakness or paralysis - Numbness or tingling sensations Can More Awareness Create Better Diagnosis?If you have medically unexplained symptoms, first, acknowledge that you are not alone. Many people are on this journey, and understanding your symptoms can help reduce feelings of frustration and isolation. Do not hesitate to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore treatment options. It may be helpful to engage with advocacy groups, peer support networks, or mental health professionals who can provide additional assistance and emotional guidance.Moreover, health care professionals should become more empathetic and holistic in their diagnoses and treatments of MUS. Time pressures, fiscal considerations, and other factors may cloud clear diagnostic conclusions. A patient-centered, holistic approach—where listening, empathy, and collaboration take center stage—can mean all the difference between suffering and successful treatment. Medically unexplained symptoms are a multifaceted, complex health issue with deep implications on a patient's emotional, physical, and financial well-being.While it may be overwhelming to live with persistent symptoms without clear causes, education, awareness, and compassionate medical care pave the way for better understanding and improved management.

consequences, challenges and impact of medically unexplained symptoms

Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

Menopause

Why Placenta Banking Is Being Called the Ultimate Health Insurance for Families

why placenta banking is being called the ultimate health insurance for families

Nutrition

Do TikTok’s Trending Supplement 'Chlorophyll & Collagen' Drink Really Work?

do tiktok’s trending supplement 'chlorophyll & collagen' drink really work?

Fitness

GLP-1 Alone Isn’t The Solution – Why Strength Training Is Key To Healthy Weight Loss Even With Weight Loss Injections

glp-1 alone isn’t the solution – why strength training is key to healthy weight loss even with weight loss injections

Nicole Eggert Breast Cancer Update: She Shared Her 'Mastectomy With Reconstruction' Amid Cancer Treatment

nicole eggert breast cancer update: she shared her 'mastectomy with reconstruction' amid cancer treatment

If <span>menopause</span> had a social media profile, its relationship status with women’s health would be… “complicated”. Sure, the hot flashes and mood swings grab most of the headlines, but lurking quietly in the background is another issue: bone loss. <span>Oestrogen</span> is important when it comes to keeping bones strong. Once its levels dip during menopause, women become much more prone to <span>osteoporosis</span>.”

Bone is a living tissue that constantly rebuilds and repairs itself. Oestrogen is what keeps this construction site running smoothly. “When oestrogen drops, the balance between bone building and bone breakdown collapses,” explains Dr. Pramila Kalra, Consultant, Department of Endocrinology, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital. This leads to bones that weaken faster than they can repair.

And it’s not just an invisible problem on a scan. Weakened bones translate into <span>fractures</span> from the most minor of falls. Hips, spines, and wrists are the usual casualties. “To put it into perspective, women over 50 face a 15% lifetime risk of hip fracture, and recovering from one can seriously affect independence,” says Dr. Kalra.

<h3>Understanding <span rel="noindex">Hormone Replacement Therapy</span> (<span rel="noindex">HRT</span>)</h3>

“HRT replaces the hormones your body no longer produces enough of after menopause, and this can significantly slow down bone loss,” says Dr. Kalra. Not only does it help bones maintain their density, but in some cases, it can even nudge bone strength upwards.

HRT isn’t a one-size-fits-all pill. It comes in forms that suit different lifestyles: tablets, patches, gels, and even sprays. For women with a uterus, progesterone usually joins the prescription party to protect the uterine lining. And along with stronger bones, many women also notice relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and that infamous menopause brain fog.

Before you rush to the pharmacy, there are questions worth asking. “HRT works best for women who have severe <span>menopausal symptoms</span> or are at a high risk of osteoporosis,” says Dr. Kalra. Women who experience early menopause, particularly before age 45, are often strong candidates for HRT because their bones face years of oestrogen shortfall.

Safety concerns around HRT have caused plenty of headlines in the past. But newer research has changed the conversation. “When HRT is started within 10 years of menopause and before age 60, the benefits outweigh the risks for most women,” explains Dr. Kalra.

Still, the risks are not zero. There may be a slight increase in the chance of blood clots or breast cancer depending on personal health, the type of HRT, and how long it’s used. “That’s why an individualised discussion with your doctor is crucial. It’s about weighing your personal benefits against possible risks,” she stresses.

Dr. Kalra recommends thinking beyond medication. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise—particularly weight-bearing workouts—and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol are all essential. “HRT is most effective as part of a holistic bone health plan,” she says.

<h3>The Need for <span rel="noindex">Personalised Care</span></h3>

There’s no “universal prescription” for menopause management. “The decision to start HRT must be highly individualised,” advises Dr. Kalra. Your doctor will consider your family history, existing health conditions, and results from a <span>bone density</span> scan. Together, you can discuss the type, dose, and duration of therapy that best fits your needs.

The conversation should cover not just symptoms but also your future risks. “It’s not about erasing menopause—it’s about empowering women to make informed choices so they can stay active and independent for years to come,” says Dr. Kalra.

Menopause may be inevitable, but brittle bones don’t have to be. With the right support, including HRT where appropriate, women can safeguard their bone health and dramatically reduce their risk of fractures. “Think of it as investing in your future mobility and independence,” Dr. Kalra concludes.

menopause

oestrogen

osteoporosis

fractures

hormone replacement therapy

bone density

menopausal symptoms

lifestyle

personalised care

If menopause had a social media profile, its relationship status with women’s health would be… “complicated”. Sure, the hot flashes and mood swings grab most of the headlines, but lurking quietly in the background is another issue: bone loss. Oestrogen is important when it comes to keeping bones strong. Once its levels dip during menopause, women become much more prone to osteoporosis.”Why Oestrogen Is Crucial Bone is a living tissue that constantly rebuilds and repairs itself. Oestrogen is what keeps this construction site running smoothly. “When oestrogen drops, the balance between bone building and bone breakdown collapses,” explains Dr. Pramila Kalra, Consultant, Department of Endocrinology, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital. This leads to bones that weaken faster than they can repair.And it’s not just an invisible problem on a scan. Weakened bones translate into fractures from the most minor of falls. Hips, spines, and wrists are the usual casualties. “To put it into perspective, women over 50 face a 15% lifetime risk of hip fracture, and recovering from one can seriously affect independence,” says Dr. Kalra.Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)“HRT replaces the hormones your body no longer produces enough of after menopause, and this can significantly slow down bone loss,” says Dr. Kalra. Not only does it help bones maintain their density, but in some cases, it can even nudge bone strength upwards.HRT isn’t a one-size-fits-all pill. It comes in forms that suit different lifestyles: tablets, patches, gels, and even sprays. For women with a uterus, progesterone usually joins the prescription party to protect the uterine lining. And along with stronger bones, many women also notice relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and that infamous menopause brain fog.Is HRT Right for You?Before you rush to the pharmacy, there are questions worth asking. “HRT works best for women who have severe menopausal symptoms or are at a high risk of osteoporosis,” says Dr. Kalra. Women who experience early menopause, particularly before age 45, are often strong candidates for HRT because their bones face years of oestrogen shortfall.Safety concerns around HRT have caused plenty of headlines in the past. But newer research has changed the conversation. “When HRT is started within 10 years of menopause and before age 60, the benefits outweigh the risks for most women,” explains Dr. Kalra.Still, the risks are not zero. There may be a slight increase in the chance of blood clots or breast cancer depending on personal health, the type of HRT, and how long it’s used. “That’s why an individualised discussion with your doctor is crucial. It’s about weighing your personal benefits against possible risks,” she stresses.A Bigger Bone Health PlanDr. Kalra recommends thinking beyond medication. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise—particularly weight-bearing workouts—and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol are all essential. “HRT is most effective as part of a holistic bone health plan,” she says.The Need for Personalised CareThere’s no “universal prescription” for menopause management. “The decision to start HRT must be highly individualised,” advises Dr. Kalra. Your doctor will consider your family history, existing health conditions, and results from a bone density scan. Together, you can discuss the type, dose, and duration of therapy that best fits your needs.The conversation should cover not just symptoms but also your future risks. “It’s not about erasing menopause—it’s about empowering women to make informed choices so they can stay active and independent for years to come,” says Dr. Kalra.Menopause may be inevitable, but brittle bones don’t have to be. With the right support, including HRT where appropriate, women can safeguard their bone health and dramatically reduce their risk of fractures. “Think of it as investing in your future mobility and independence,” Dr. Kalra concludes.

your hormones could actually help keep your bones strong after menopause

Autism

Health News

Popular Sleep Aid Suspended After Gummies Triggered Kids 'Overdosing' On Melatonin

popular sleep aid suspended after gummies triggered kids 'overdosing' on melatonin

Six Secret Triggers That Could Speed Up Your Ageing Process Faster Than Others, Scientists Reveal

six secret triggers that could speed up your ageing process faster than others, scientists reveal

Shingles Vaccines Now Available For 18+ People With Weak Immune Systems - How Long Does The Vaccine Last?

shingles vaccines now available for 18+ people with weak immune systems - how long does the vaccine last?

FDA Approves New COVID-19 Vaccines In US With Restricted Access, Check Eligibility And Other Rules

fda approves new covid-19 vaccines in us with restricted access, check eligibility and other rules

<span>Autism</span> is often painted as a childhood condition, usually spotted in the school playground when social quirks or communication differences raise eyebrows. But what happens when those children grow up without anyone connecting the dots? According to new research from King’s College London, the answer is unsettling: most autistic adults over 40 are still flying under the diagnostic radar.

The review, published in the Annual Review of Developmental Psychology, estimates that a staggering 89 per cent of people over 40 with autism remain undiagnosed. To put that into perspective, while around 23 per cent of autistic children under 19 are missed, nearly 96 per cent of those over 60 have never been recognised as autistic. That’s not just a gap; that’s a canyon.

When the researchers broke it down by age and gender, the numbers looked even more lopsided. Among men aged 40 to 59, more than 91 per cent had never been diagnosed. For women in the same age group, the figure was almost 80 per cent. By the time people reached their sixties, both men and women crossed into the 96 to 97 per cent range of being undiagnosed.

Compare that with the 20 to 39 age group, where roughly half remained undiagnosed, and the generational divide becomes clear. Today’s younger adults are far more likely to be spotted, assessed and supported. Older adults, meanwhile, have often been left to muddle through without a name for their lifelong differences.

Gavin Stewart, lead author of the study, explains that a lack of diagnosis means many autistic adults were never offered the right support, leaving them more vulnerable to age-related problems. These range from social isolation to poor physical and mental health.

The review found that autistic people in middle age and beyond have higher rates of almost every health condition compared to non-autistic peers, like heart disease, neurological issues, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety and depression. Add age-related conditions like <span>osteoporosis</span>, <span>arthritis</span> and Parkinson’s disease, and the picture gets even more complicated.

Even more concerning, autistic older adults were six times more likely to report suicidal thoughts or self-harm and four times more likely to develop early-onset dementia.

The study highlighted another layer of challenge: healthcare itself. Many older autistic adults face obstacles in accessing medical support due to communication differences, sensory sensitivities or simply not knowing how to navigate the system. Combine that with a shortage of healthcare professionals trained in recognising autism in adults, and it’s no wonder so many cases slip through the cracks.

Professor Francesca Happé, co-author of the review, stresses that this is a global public health issue. “Understanding the needs of autistic people as they age is a pressing global public health concern. As autistic people age, the nature of the challenges they face changes. We must adopt a lifespan approach that funds long-term research, integrates tailored healthcare, and expands social supports so that ageing autistic people can live happy and healthy lives,” she says. In other words, autism doesn’t disappear after childhood, so neither should support.

The findings also suggest that research into autism may have been skewed for years. If most older adults remain undiagnosed, then studies have largely overlooked them. That means our current understanding of how autistic people age is incomplete at best. No wonder policies and services have not caught up.

Employment struggles, strained relationships and social isolation were all noted as common experiences for older autistic adults. Without the framework of a diagnosis, many never knew why they felt out of step with the world, and their difficulties were often chalked up to personality flaws or “just how they are”.

If you’re wondering whether getting a diagnosis later in life makes a difference, the answer is yes. Recognition can bring clarity, opening doors to support systems, healthcare adaptations and even financial benefits. It can also reshape how family, friends and colleagues understand a person’s behaviour and needs.

The NHS encourages adults who suspect they might be autistic to speak to their GP and ask about a referral for an assessment. Specialists can help by gathering life history, speaking with people who know you well and observing how you interact with others.

The review ends with a clear message: it’s time to stop treating autism as a childhood-only issue. For too long, older autistic adults have been invisible, their experiences untold and their needs unmet. With diagnosis rates still alarmingly low, researchers are urging more studies, better services and a cultural shift that embraces autism across the lifespan.

Arthritis

Osteoporosis

parkinsons disease

autistis people

Autism is often painted as a childhood condition, usually spotted in the school playground when social quirks or communication differences raise eyebrows. But what happens when those children grow up without anyone connecting the dots? According to new research from King’s College London, the answer is unsettling: most autistic adults over 40 are still flying under the diagnostic radar.The review, published in the Annual Review of Developmental Psychology, estimates that a staggering 89 per cent of people over 40 with autism remain undiagnosed. To put that into perspective, while around 23 per cent of autistic children under 19 are missed, nearly 96 per cent of those over 60 have never been recognised as autistic. That’s not just a gap; that’s a canyon.The Age FactorWhen the researchers broke it down by age and gender, the numbers looked even more lopsided. Among men aged 40 to 59, more than 91 per cent had never been diagnosed. For women in the same age group, the figure was almost 80 per cent. By the time people reached their sixties, both men and women crossed into the 96 to 97 per cent range of being undiagnosed.Compare that with the 20 to 39 age group, where roughly half remained undiagnosed, and the generational divide becomes clear. Today’s younger adults are far more likely to be spotted, assessed and supported. Older adults, meanwhile, have often been left to muddle through without a name for their lifelong differences.Why It MattersGavin Stewart, lead author of the study, explains that a lack of diagnosis means many autistic adults were never offered the right support, leaving them more vulnerable to age-related problems. These range from social isolation to poor physical and mental health.The review found that autistic people in middle age and beyond have higher rates of almost every health condition compared to non-autistic peers, like heart disease, neurological issues, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety and depression. Add age-related conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease, and the picture gets even more complicated.Even more concerning, autistic older adults were six times more likely to report suicidal thoughts or self-harm and four times more likely to develop early-onset dementia.The Hidden StrugglesThe study highlighted another layer of challenge: healthcare itself. Many older autistic adults face obstacles in accessing medical support due to communication differences, sensory sensitivities or simply not knowing how to navigate the system. Combine that with a shortage of healthcare professionals trained in recognising autism in adults, and it’s no wonder so many cases slip through the cracks.Professor Francesca Happé, co-author of the review, stresses that this is a global public health issue. “Understanding the needs of autistic people as they age is a pressing global public health concern. As autistic people age, the nature of the challenges they face changes. We must adopt a lifespan approach that funds long-term research, integrates tailored healthcare, and expands social supports so that ageing autistic people can live happy and healthy lives,” she says. In other words, autism doesn’t disappear after childhood, so neither should support.Lost in the ShuffleThe findings also suggest that research into autism may have been skewed for years. If most older adults remain undiagnosed, then studies have largely overlooked them. That means our current understanding of how autistic people age is incomplete at best. No wonder policies and services have not caught up.Employment struggles, strained relationships and social isolation were all noted as common experiences for older autistic adults. Without the framework of a diagnosis, many never knew why they felt out of step with the world, and their difficulties were often chalked up to personality flaws or “just how they are”.Why a Diagnosis Still MattersIf you’re wondering whether getting a diagnosis later in life makes a difference, the answer is yes. Recognition can bring clarity, opening doors to support systems, healthcare adaptations and even financial benefits. It can also reshape how family, friends and colleagues understand a person’s behaviour and needs.The NHS encourages adults who suspect they might be autistic to speak to their GP and ask about a referral for an assessment. Specialists can help by gathering life history, speaking with people who know you well and observing how you interact with others.A Call for ChangeThe review ends with a clear message: it’s time to stop treating autism as a childhood-only issue. For too long, older autistic adults have been invisible, their experiences untold and their needs unmet. With diagnosis rates still alarmingly low, researchers are urging more studies, better services and a cultural shift that embraces autism across the lifespan.

study reveals why autism in over-40s rarely gets recognised

Can Diabetes Drugs Steal Your Vision? Why GLP-1s Are Facing Eye Damage Claims

Ozempic

Ozempic Rebound: This Is How Quickly You Could Gain Weight After You Quit Ozempic

ozempic rebound: this is how quickly you could gain weight after you quit ozempic

How Your Health Could Be Dulling Your Ability To See Colors?

how your health could be dulling your ability to see colors?

Is Skipping Exercise Worse for Diabetes Than Eating Sugar?

is skipping exercise worse for diabetes than eating sugar?

When blockbuster <span>diabetes</span> drugs double as miracle weight-loss injections, it seems like everyone wants in. But now, the same medications are making headlines for possible vision loss.

Originally designed to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists, which cover <span>Ozempic</span>, <span>Mounjaro</span>, <span>Wegovy</span>, <span>Trulicity</span>, <span>Rybelsus</span> and others, quickly became famous in the weight-loss world. Social media crowned them the “skinny jab”, while pharmaceutical companies rushed out new versions to keep up with demand.

But as prescriptions soared, so did reports of odd side effects. Stomach paralysis (<span>gastroparesis</span>), intestinal blockages and now a rare vision condition are creeping into the conversation. It turns out shedding pounds might come with strings attached, ones that affect more than your waistline.

The latest condition in this story is nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, or NAION for short. It is a mouthful, but the condition itself is no joke. NAION can blur vision permanently or even lead to <span>blindness</span> by damaging the optic nerve.

Whispers of this link first appeared in mid-2024, when Harvard researchers published a study claiming Ozempic users faced a seven-fold higher risk of NAION compared to non-users. Just weeks later, another paper in JAMA Ophthalmology suggested the concern was not limited to Ozempic; it was likely an issue across the entire GLP-1 family.

Researchers point out that while there is a measurable increase in eye complications, the story isn’t as clear-cut as it sounds.

A recent retrospective study found a slight but significant uptick, about 7 per cent, in new cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among GLP-1 users. DR is a common complication of diabetes itself, where blood vessels in the retina become damaged. Interestingly, though, these same patients did not show a higher risk of progressing to severe complications like proliferative retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema.

Reports suggest that patients on GLP-1 drugs should be screened regularly for eye problems, no matter their baseline status. In other words, keep your ophthalmologist on speed dial.

While doctors debate the data, lawyers are already busy. <span>Eli Lilly</span>, maker of Mounjaro and Zepbound, has asked federal judges to consolidate the growing pile of lawsuits into one massive multidistrict litigation (MDL). This would lump together claims of optic nerve damage with the thousands of cases already filed over gastroparesis.

The lawsuits accuse manufacturers of pushing profits over patient safety, alleging that the risks of vision loss were downplayed or overlooked. With more patients joining the legal fray, the story is no longer confined to medical journals; it is unfolding in courtrooms across the US.

For people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs remain highly effective. They lower blood sugar, help with weight loss, and even offer some protection against heart disease. For many, the benefits still outweigh the risks.

But the newfound spotlight on NAION is a reminder that no drug is without trade-offs. Those weekly injections may slim waistlines, but they also highlight the need for vigilance. Patients should discuss eye health with their doctors, schedule regular check-ups, and report any sudden changes in vision immediately.

ozempic

mounjaro

wegovy

trulicity

rybelsus

diabetes

obesity

blindness

eli lilly

gastroparesis

When blockbuster diabetes drugs double as miracle weight-loss injections, it seems like everyone wants in. But now, the same medications are making headlines for possible vision loss.The Double Life of GLP-1 DrugsOriginally designed to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists, which cover Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Trulicity, Rybelsus and others, quickly became famous in the weight-loss world. Social media crowned them the “skinny jab”, while pharmaceutical companies rushed out new versions to keep up with demand.But as prescriptions soared, so did reports of odd side effects. Stomach paralysis (gastroparesis), intestinal blockages and now a rare vision condition are creeping into the conversation. It turns out shedding pounds might come with strings attached, ones that affect more than your waistline.A Shadow on the Horizon: NAIONThe latest condition in this story is nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, or NAION for short. It is a mouthful, but the condition itself is no joke. NAION can blur vision permanently or even lead to blindness by damaging the optic nerve.Whispers of this link first appeared in mid-2024, when Harvard researchers published a study claiming Ozempic users faced a seven-fold higher risk of NAION compared to non-users. Just weeks later, another paper in JAMA Ophthalmology suggested the concern was not limited to Ozempic; it was likely an issue across the entire GLP-1 family.What the Experts Are SayingResearchers point out that while there is a measurable increase in eye complications, the story isn’t as clear-cut as it sounds.A recent retrospective study found a slight but significant uptick, about 7 per cent, in new cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among GLP-1 users. DR is a common complication of diabetes itself, where blood vessels in the retina become damaged. Interestingly, though, these same patients did not show a higher risk of progressing to severe complications like proliferative retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema.Reports suggest that patients on GLP-1 drugs should be screened regularly for eye problems, no matter their baseline status. In other words, keep your ophthalmologist on speed dial.From Courtrooms to ClinicsWhile doctors debate the data, lawyers are already busy. Eli Lilly, maker of Mounjaro and Zepbound, has asked federal judges to consolidate the growing pile of lawsuits into one massive multidistrict litigation (MDL). This would lump together claims of optic nerve damage with the thousands of cases already filed over gastroparesis.The lawsuits accuse manufacturers of pushing profits over patient safety, alleging that the risks of vision loss were downplayed or overlooked. With more patients joining the legal fray, the story is no longer confined to medical journals; it is unfolding in courtrooms across the US.The Balancing Act for PatientsFor people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs remain highly effective. They lower blood sugar, help with weight loss, and even offer some protection against heart disease. For many, the benefits still outweigh the risks.But the newfound spotlight on NAION is a reminder that no drug is without trade-offs. Those weekly injections may slim waistlines, but they also highlight the need for vigilance. Patients should discuss eye health with their doctors, schedule regular check-ups, and report any sudden changes in vision immediately.

can diabetes drugs steal your vision? why glp-1s are facing eye damage claims

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Consequences, Challenges And Impact Of Medically Unexplained Symptoms

Quick Stories

Study Reveals Why Autism in Over-40s Rarely Gets Recognised

Can Diabetes Drugs Steal Your Vision? Why GLP-1s Are Facing Eye Damage Claims

Egg Freezing Demystified: How Many Eggs and Cycles Does It Take?

Health Conditions A-Z

Your Hormones Could Actually Help Keep Your Bones Strong After Menopause

Did You Know? THESE Additives In Your Ultra-processed Foods Could Increase Risk Of Death

Study Reveals Why Autism in Over-40s Rarely Gets Recognised