Psychological Issues in Chronic Cough Patients
Author Information
Author(s): McGarvey Lorcan PA, Carton Carol, Gamble Lucy A, Heaney Liam G, Shepherd Richard, Ennis Madeline, MacMahon Joseph
Primary Institution: Belfast City Hospital
Hypothesis
Do patients with chronic cough referred for specialist evaluation have emotional impairment?
Conclusion
Patients with chronic cough appear to have increased levels of emotional upset although psychological questionnaires do not readily distinguish between idiopathic coughers and those successfully treated.
Supporting Evidence
- 33% of cough patients were identified as anxious.
- 16% experienced depression.
- 48% of all coughers had moderate or high trait anxiety.
- State anxiety was significantly higher in idiopathic cough patients compared to treated patients.
Takeaway
People who cough a lot might feel sad or anxious, and doctors should check on their feelings too.
Methodology
Patients completed psychological questionnaires and underwent a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
Potential Biases
No significant biases reported.
Limitations
The relatively small sample size may have overlooked significant differences in psychomorbidity.
Participant Demographics
57 patients (40 female), mean age 47.5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001 for trait anxiety comparison with healthy population.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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