Association of Depression, Anxiety, and Somatic Symptom With Refractory Constipation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Chronic constipation (CC) affects many patients, with some not responding to standard treatments.
• Psychological disorders are often linked to CC, prompting investigation into their role in treatment resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between anxiety, depression, and somatic symptoms with refractory constipation.
• To identify independent risk factors for refractory constipation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 610 patients assessing psychological (PHQ-9, GAD-7), quality of life (PAC-QOL), and constipation (KESS) scores.
• Correlation and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with refractory constipation.

Main Results:

• 36.0% of patients had refractory constipation.
• Anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), and somatic symptoms (PHQ-15) were identified as independent risk factors for refractory constipation.
• A predictive model showed significant value (AUC=0.81).

Conclusions:

• Anxiety, depression, and somatic symptoms are significant independent risk factors for refractory constipation.
• Psychological distress is strongly associated with CC symptoms and patient distress.
• Integrating mental health assessments into CC treatment strategies may enhance intervention effectiveness.