Integrating psychological assessment in achalasia management: addressing mental health to enhance patient outcomes

Achalasia is a chronic esophageal disorder with a generally favorable prognosis; however, approximately 20% of patients experience persistent or recurrent symptoms despite therapeutic interventions. These ongoing symptoms can significantly diminish both disease-specific and overall quality of life....

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European journal of translational myology Vol. 34; no. 3
Main Authors: Khosravi, Mohsen, Kavoosi, Ahoora, Rezapour-Nasrabad, Rafat, Omraninava, Melody, Anamagh, Alireza Nazari, Asl, Seyed Teymur Seyedi
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: PAGEPress Publications, Pavia, Italy 22-07-2024
PAGEPress Publications
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Summary:Achalasia is a chronic esophageal disorder with a generally favorable prognosis; however, approximately 20% of patients experience persistent or recurrent symptoms despite therapeutic interventions. These ongoing symptoms can significantly diminish both disease-specific and overall quality of life. Although the physical manifestations of achalasia, such as regurgitation, dysphagia, chest pain, and weight loss, are well-documented and assessed using the Eckardt score, the psychological burden of the disease remains underexplored. Individuals with achalasia are at an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and somatization, exacerbated by the emotional strain and social limitations imposed by the disease. Despite this, psychological impacts are often overlooked in clinical settings, leading to inadequate mental health support for these patients. This article underscores the necessity for prompt psychological assessments during the diagnosis of achalasia to better address these mental health challenges and improve overall patient care.
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ISSN:2037-7452
2037-7460
DOI:10.4081/ejtm.2024.12727