Prevalence of Depression Among Fibromyalgia Patients and its Effect on Quality of Life of PatirntsAttending Rheumatology OPD

Abstract

 Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. Depression is a common comorbidity in FM, significantly impacting patients' quality of life (QoL). This study explores the prevalence of depression among FM patients and evaluates its impact on QoL. Methods: A crosssectional study was conducted among 20 FM patients attending a rheumatology outpatient department. Depression was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), and QoL was measured through the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR). Patients were categorized into groups with and without depression, and comparisons were made using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Patients with depression demonstrated significantly higher HAQ and FIQR scores compared to those without depression, indicating greater functional impairment and disease burden (p<0.05p < 0.05p<0.05). Depression severity was positively associated with reduced QoL, with severe depression correlating with higher FIQR scores across emotional, physical, and social domains (p<0.05p < 0.05p<0.05). No significant differences were observed in demographic factors between the groups, highlighting the clinical basis of disparities.Conclusion: Depression significantly exacerbates the QoL in FM patients. Early identification and management of depression are crucial for improving outcomes, emphasizing the need for integrated, multidisciplinary care approaches targeting both physical and psychological aspects of FM.