Chronic pain is often more than just a physical condition.
According to Kurt Kroenke, M.D., of Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine, it’s crucial to recognize the interconnected nature of physical and mental well-being, particularly for individuals suffering from chronic pain.
Dr. Kroenke, a leading figure in the field of symptomology, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and psychological symptoms.
The Vicious Cycle of Pain, Anxiety, and Depression
Dr. Kroenke explains that there’s a bi-directional relationship between chronic pain and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.
When people suffer from chronic pain, they often struggle with sleep, leading to fatigue and mood disturbances, thus becoming more susceptible to depression and anxiety.
Conversely, pre-existing mental health conditions can exacerbate the perception of pain.
Brain networks regulating both mood and pain are closely connected, perpetuating a vicious cycle that can impair quality of life if not properly addressed.
Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis
Dr. Kroenke notes that patients often visit their primary care physicians for physical symptoms like headaches or back pain but fail to mention associated psychological symptoms like moodiness or fatigue.
Conversely, doctors may not inquire about symptoms beyond the physical ones that led to the office visit. This lack of comprehensive discussion results in under-treatment of emotional symptoms, causing long-term suffering.
Diagnosing Symptoms: The Challenge
Unfortunately, there are no straightforward tests like blood pressure cuffs or X-rays to diagnose these symptoms. Physicians often have to rely on patient feedback, which can be inherently subjective.
Dr. Kroenke has developed widely used scales, such as PEG for pain, PHQ-9 for depression, and GAD-7 for anxiety, to help clinicians gauge the severity and type of symptoms based on patient responses.
These tools have been translated into over 100 languages, underscoring their global relevance.
Not Just a Physical Affair
In healthcare, the focus often veers heavily toward diagnosing and treating physical symptoms, especially when these are the primary complaints that bring patients into the clinic.
However, Dr. Kroenke’s research highlights that over half of all common symptoms presented in primary care might not have a clear-cut, disease-based explanation.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach is Necessary
According to Dr. Kroenke, healthcare providers need to adopt a more holistic approach that pays attention to both physical and psychological symptoms to improve patient outcomes effectively.
A quote from the Roman poet Ovid aptly summarizes the essence of Dr. Kroenke’s message: “I am no better in mind than in body; both alike are sick and I suffer double hurt.”
The field of symptomology, therefore, offers a significant and much-needed shift toward a more integrated healthcare model, bridging the gap between physical and mental well-being.
If you care about pain, please read studies about how to manage your back pain, and exercise harder if you want to ward off pain due to ageing.
For more information about pain, please see recent studies about how to live pain-free with arthritis, and results showing common native American plant may help reduce diarrhea and pain.
The study was published in JAMA Network Open.
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