Exploring the Link Between Somatic and Psychiatric Symptoms in Patients With Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Survey From North India.

Abstract

The association between somatic symptoms and psychiatric co-morbidities remains unexplored among patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) in Asian populations. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating psychiatric morbidities and their determinants among patients presenting with MUPS in an Indian setup. This cross-sectional study, conducted in the outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care hospital in India, assessed 200 patients diagnosed with MUPS. Assessment tools, such as the Somatic Symptom Scale (SSS-8), Presumptive Stressful Life Event Scale (PSLES), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS), were administered to collect data. The study examined patients (mean age 36.51±9.82 years), predominantly comprising females (67.5%), presenting with MUPS. Common presenting symptoms were general (96.3%), musculoskeletal pain (91.7%), and gastrointestinal symptoms reported by 81.7%. Medium somatic symptom severity (57%) was more prevalent in females. Prevalent psychiatric co-morbid conditions included depression (mild: 22.0%, moderate: 26.5%), moderate anxiety (41.5%), and moderate stress (26%). Strong associations were observed between the SSS-8score and depression (χ²(6, N = 200) = 49.26, p < 0.001), anxiety (χ²(8, N = 200) = 37.90, p < 0.001), stress (χ²(6, N = 200) = 44.45, p < 0.001), and the experience of stressful life events (χ²(3, N = 200) = 6.5, p < 0.05). The study indicates an intertwined association between MUPS and psychiatric disorders. Individuals with MUPS commonly experience heightened anxiety and depression, emphasizing the complex interplay between somatic symptoms and emotional well-being. Consideration of environmental and social factors may be crucial for a comprehensive understanding.