Subjective Symptoms Today

Abstract

Subjective symptoms are those that patients report, but in which no objective elements are found to justify them after performing a quality physical examination. This is even more complicated when “abnormal” results are not found in the complementary tests performed. In cases like these, high degree of clinical expertise is therefore required to interpret the symptoms appropriately. Some general characteristics of these symptoms are discussed, which are not always well understood or valued by doctors, by caregivers, or by those who suffer themselves on some occasions, in an era in which “speediness,” pragmatism, and evidence proliferate. Therefore, these individuals are frequently labeled as “conflictive” cases, with discriminatory meaning. A well-collected anamnesis takes on greater importance in these cases through a “listening” and “third-degree interrogation,” as part of the clinical method, based on an adequate doctor-patient relationship, which takes into account the context of the patient and its particular characteristics. Mention is made of some of the most frequent subjective symptoms and “new” syndromes that have burst into the clinic due to the predominance of this type of symptoms. Some advice and recommendations related to the management of these cases are provided, and finally the need to dedicate adequate care to patients with subjective symptoms is given, both to achieve their future well-being and to avoid unfortunate surprises due to not taking proper care of them.