F45.4: Persistent somatoform pain disorder

Persistent somatoform pain disorder, categorized under the umbrella of somatoform disorders, is a condition where an individual experiences chronic pain that cannot fully be explained by a medical condition, physical damage, or injury. The pain experienced is real and significantly impacts the person’s daily life - interfering with work, social activities, and overall quality of life. The pain persists for longer periods, usually more than six months, and tends to be more intense than what might be expected from the physical findings. While the cause of this disorder is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of physical, psychological, and social factors which amplify the person's perception of pain. Stress and emotional health issues may also play a crucial role. Common symptoms include pain in the back, joints, head, stomach, or other parts of the body, as well as fatigue and sleep problems. Despite no apparent physical cause, the pain felt with this condition is very real, and can lead to significant distress and disability.