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Somatic symptoms

Disorder of functional neurological symptoms (conversion)

Real neurological symptoms (weakness, tremor, seizures, loss of sensation or vision) that are not explained by a neurological disease but by a malfunction of the nervous system.

Common signs

Weakness, tremors or seizuresTests show no damageGets worse with stress

Tips

For you

  1. Ask the neurologist for a clear explanation
  2. Combined physiotherapy and psychotherapy
  3. Gradually return to activity

For family and friends

  1. Believe them: the symptoms are real
  2. Support them through rehabilitation step by step

When to ask for help

  1. With new neurological symptoms, get a medical assessment
  2. If the seizures are frequent

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I have weakness, tremors or movements I can't control
2. I have had episodes like fainting or seizures
3. I have temporarily lost feeling or vision
4. My neurological tests have come back normal
5. The symptoms get worse with stress
6. The symptoms change or vary
7. I find it hard to live a normal life
8. I've been told "it's nothing" and haven't felt believed

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guidance call with our teamFree resource from Clínica VivaldiAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Somatic symptom disorderSomatic symptomsAnxiety disorder caused by illness (hypochondria)Somatic symptomsPsychological factors that influence other medical conditionsSomatic symptomsFactitious disorderSomatic symptoms

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.