EPA-1634 – Pain and Psychiatric Illness

Abstract

Introduction

Pain is a frequent reason for psychiatric consultation. It is a symptom that is often associated with other mental disorders. It can have a significant impact on the quality of life of the patient. Yet pain is a complaint often underestimated by the clinician. It is considered inherent to mental illness and so poorly supported.

Objective

Studying the relationship between mental illness and pain and include means to support this co morbidity.

Methodology

This is a cross-sectional and descriptive study on a population of 50 consultants who suffer from chronic pain. The evaluation consists of a questionnary on the characteristics of the pain, psychiatric illness and modality of care.

Results

Among the patients studied, 80% were female. The mean age was 47.33 years. Predominant type of pain was headache in 78 % of cases, followed by stomach pains and diffuse arthralgia. The impact on daily life was average for most patients. Radiological exploration was performed in 35% (without abnormalities in 100% of cases). Depressive disorders were present in 60 % of cases. The most prescribed analgesics was Tier 1 (paracetamol) with a positive trend in 65 % of cases.

Conclusion

The pain, especially headaches are a common complaint in psychiatry. Their association with depression is classic. But it can also accompany other mental illnesses and worsen their prognosis. A better understanding of causality of pain and its management is essential to improve the quality of life of patients.