Status and Influencing Factors of Body Image Disturbance in Patients With Hemifacial Spasm: A Quantitative and Qualitative Study

Abstract

Patients diagnosed with hemifacial spasm (HFS) often experience significant facial changes that affect their body image and potentially have a negative impact on their physical and psychological well-being. This qualitative study therefore seeks to identify the current state of body image of Chinese patients with HFS, analyze the factors that influence it, and further explore their experiences based on their level of body image disturbance (BID) using a mixed methods approach. A mixed-methods study was conducted between January 2021 and June 2023. Phase I encompassed the completion of questionnaires by 124 participants. Subsequently, in Phase II, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 individuals selected from Phase I to gain deeper insights into their specific experiences with BID. Patients afflicted with HFS achieved Body Image Scale scores 9.00 (0.00, 12.00). Age, anxiety, depression, and fear of negative evaluation were identified as predictors of exacerbated BID (P<0.05). Qualitative research predominantly centered on two primary themes: the experiences and outward manifestations of BID in HFS patients. These individuals expressed dissatisfaction with their appearance, apprehensions about being the focus of attention, and instances of social avoidance. Owing to varying degrees of anxiety, depression, and apprehension about external evaluation, individuals grappling with HFS are susceptible to experiencing BID. Consequently, when devising interventions, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition and implement targeted measures aimed at ameliorating body image, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for the patient.