Analysis of Relationship between Reflux Symptom Index and Psychiatric Problems / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the relationship between reflux symptom index (RSI) and psychiatric problems such as depression, somatization, and anxiety. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We prospectively analyzed 231 patients with symptoms with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) using the RSI and the reflux finding score. RESULTS: Seventy nine patients (34.2%) were diagnosed with LPR. A significant correlation was detected between the RSI and depression (18.4±8.3 vs. 12.3±7.0, p < 0.001), anxiety (19.5±8.5 vs. 13.0±7.3, p < 0.001), and somatization (19.2±9.1 vs. 13.6±7.5, p < 0.001). A multivariate analysis confirmed a significant association between heartburn and depression [odds ratio (OR) 1.241, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.003–1.537, p=0.047], choking and anxiety (OR 1.747, 95% CI 1.297–2.352, p < 0.001), and choking and somatization (OR 1.707, 95% CI 1.248–2.336, p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Our preliminary results suggest that patients with high RSI may need to be carefully evaluated for psychiatric problems.