In asthma patients: relationship between symptom control, quality of life, and the beck anxiety scale

Abstract

Aims: Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent airway obstruction. It affects the quality of life of patients and can lead to anxiety and other psychological disorders. In this study, we aimed to find out how asthma affects patients' quality of life and psychological state by using the SF-36 Quality of Life Scale and the Beck Anxiety Scale (BAS) in patients diagnosed with asthma. Methods: 222 patients diagnosed with asthma in our outpatient clinics were included in the study. Patient demographic characteristics and respiratory function test parameters were recorded. Outcomes were determined by assessing asthma control status with the Asthma Control Test (ACT), patients' emotional state with the BAS, and quality of life with the SF-36. Results: According to ACT, 37.8% of patients were uncontrolled, 33.8% were partially controlled, and controlled 28.4%. The distribution in terms of asthma classification: 29.8% were mild intermittent, 5% mild persistent, 35.1% moderate persistent and 40.1% severe persistent. When comparing between ACT groups in relation to the SF-36 quality of life scale; physical function (p<0.001), physical role difficulties (p<0.001), emotional role difficulties (p<0.001), vitality (p<0.001), mental health (p<0.001), social function (p<0.001), pain (p<0.001), and general health (p<0.001). There was a difference between the groups ACT in relation to BAS (p<0.001). Conclusion: We believe that when regulating the medical treatment of asthma patients, not only their respiratory functions but also their quality of life and psychological status should be evaluated, and measures should be taken to improve the quality of life and psychological disorders.