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Predictors of persistent palpitations and continued medical utilization
A J Barsky1, D K Ahern, E D Bailey
1Division of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
The Journal of Family Practice
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Persistent palpitations are linked to high sensitivity to bodily sensations and daily life stress. These factors, when combined, predict ongoing symptoms and healthcare use in monitored patients.
Area of Science:
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Cardiology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Assessing predictors of persistent palpitations and ongoing medical utilization.
- Focus on patients referred for ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify factors contributing to persistent palpitations.
- Determine predictors of continued medical care utilization.
Main Methods:
- Prospective follow-up of patients after ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring.
- Inception assessment of somatization, hypochondriacal attitudes, bodily amplification, and life stress.
- Follow-up structured interview on clinical course, symptoms, and medical care use.
Main Results:
- 83.6% of patients experienced persistent palpitations at 3-month follow-up.
- Interaction of bodily amplification and daily life stress predicted palpitation severity.
- This interaction also predicted unscheduled medical visits.
Conclusions:
- High sensitivity to bodily sensations combined with daily life stress predicts persistent palpitations.
- Neither factor alone is sufficient; their combination is key.
- Findings highlight the psychosomatic nature of persistent palpitations.