What may a hypochondriac inappropriately be labeled?

Answer 1

They may be inappropriately labeled with any disease for which they are capable of creating evidence. Their fear and worry may create real symptoms, so a doctor just might diagnose them as having something real.

Pain is sometimes one thing which people falsely claim to have, and if they can act miserable enough, it might fool a few doctors, at least at first, until x-rays, MRIs, and other tests can be done.

GI problems can be faked too. People may misuse OTC medications to make themselves seem sick. So they may be vomiting and suffering loose stools, and a doctor might even prescribe something if given a compelling enough story.

Also, those said to be suffering hypochondria may instead suffer OCD, clinical depression, phobias, and somatization disorder. So it stands to reason that hypochondria could be mistaken for more serious mental health conditions.