The relationship between pain levels and psychiatric symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Seha Akduman

Yeditepe University Kosuyolu Hospital, Kosuyolu, Istanbul/Kadikoy, Turkey

Introduction: Introduction: In this prospective study, it was aimed to evaluate the relationship between pain levels and psychiatric symptoms in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). 

Materials and methods: The study was conducted between 12.10.2018 and 12.10.2020 in a private hospital. In the study, 172 COPD patients and 48 control group patients who applied to the hospital with chest pain were subjected. 

Results: Age and HGB level of control group were higher, whereas C-reactive protein (CRP), urea, creatinine, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil (NEU) and eosinophil (EOS) levels were higher in the COPD group with statistically insignificant difference (p<0.05).  Initial, 1st month, 3rd month and 6th month pain levels of COPD group were significantly higher in the COPD group (p<0.05). The relationship between initial VAS score with anxiety (r=0.214) and negative self concept (r=0.470) were positively significant, and correlation between anxiety and somatization was negatively significant (r=-0.219) in COPD group. 

Conclusion: It was found that psychiatric symptoms in COPD patients are higher, and related with pain. In order to control and manage pain in COPD patients, the patient should also be referred to a psychiatric examination.