A study published Jan. 31, 2008 in Arthritis Care and Research found moderate severe to severe symptoms of depression in 1 in 10 patients interviewed who were visiting their rheumatology clinic. The report also noted a correlation between the level of depression and how effectively patients went about their normal activities of daily living.
At issue is whether or not patients with rheumatoid arthritis are being identified during visits to rheumatology clinics. The study found that only 20 percent of RA patients who had evidence of depression actually discussed their symptoms with their rheumatologists. Even among that 20 percent, the discussion about their depression symptoms was often brief.
The study authors suggest that rheumatologists may not be comfortable discussing depression or treating depression, assuming instead that this is the role of the primary care physician. However, failure to identify a patient’s depression may have a direct impact on his or her ability to consistently follow with medical treatments. This, of course, may lead to serious negative impacts on overall health.
The study highlights
two points for people with rheumatoid arthritis. First, it’s important to pay
attention to your emotional well-being, and be aware of ongoing signs of
depression. Second, don’t assume your doctors will delve into your emotional
health during your office visits; if you feel you are experiencing depression,
it’s important for you to raise this issue yourself and insist that it be
considered as part of your overall RA health plan.
