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Experience of illness with chronic singultus: a qualitative interview study
Marco Richard Zugaj1, Claudia Busch2, Andrea Züger3
1Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine Section, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 131, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany. marco.zugaj@med.uni-heidelberg.de.
Chronic hiccups significantly reduce quality of life due to physical and psychosocial burdens. Increased awareness and specialized care are crucial for patients with this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Qualitative health research
Background:
- Chronic singultus (hiccups lasting >1 month) is a rare condition impacting patient quality of life.
- Limited evidence exists due to low prevalence, exacerbating patient struggles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the quality of life for chronic singultus patients.
- To explore patient experiences with healthcare and the general population.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative structuring content analysis of semi-structured interviews.
- Reliability ensured through interprofessional expert evaluation.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 20 patient interviews revealed high disease burden.
- Physical symptoms (gastrointestinal issues, fatigue) and psychosocial consequences (anxiety, depression, social withdrawal) significantly reduce quality of life.
- Psychosocial impacts include shame and even suicidality.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare stakeholder ignorance contributes to patient marginalization.
- Referral to specialized centers can optimize care and prevent misuse.
- Raising disease awareness among healthcare professionals is essential.
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