Rheumatic arthritis is a psychosomatic disease
Psychosocial factors are essential for the process and the treatment of rheumatic arthritis. Significant events in life lessen the symptoms, whereas a negative state of mind and small irritating events intensify the symptoms [Potter et al., 1997]. Psychological variables influencing the pathology are, among other things: pain, religious belief, expectation pattern, functional handicap [Young, 1992]. Stress is recognized as an important risk factor in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis [Cutolo et al., 2006]. “Many studies have clearly shown that chronic mild stress (family or professional stress) may lead to proinflammatory effects, increasing disease activity. Furthermore, a positive correlation between the stress level at the onset of rheumatic arthritis and radiological progression could be demonstrated.” [Malysheva et al., 2010]
Depression/anxiety symptoms are associated with increased long-term RA disease activity and physical disability. Baseline depression/anxiety is associated with 50% reduction in prednisolone treatment response in RA. Persistent depression/anxiety is associated with reduced odds of reaching RA remission at 2 years [Matcham et al., 2016].
Given the importance of psychological factors in RA, a clear need exists to complement existing medical treatments with psychological interventions. There is now no doubt that psychological intervention for the management of pain in patients with RA is efficient and therefore can be considered to be evidence-based. Cognitive behavior therapy – using cognitive strategies – lessens the pain and improves how negative aspects of the illness are handled [Beckham et al., 1991]. Another study reported a definite link between the heightening of stress-resistance and self-confidence on the one hand, and the rheumatic activity, pain and depression on the other [Smarr et al., 1997].
However, the disease stage seems to be a key factor in response to psychotherapy, such that individuals in advanced stages of RA might not benefit to the same extent as do those in the early stages of the disease [Kraaimaat et al., 1995].
Related Posts
Acute upon Chronic Stress
With a particular emphasis on the immune/inflammatory system — both kinds of stress together (modulated by many factors) can be significantly more damaging than their sum. This is, at present, a logical intuition, worthy of further scientific investigation. There is much vagueness to get through. Vaguenesses Of course, ‘stress’ is a vague – although pretty Read the full article…
Mind on Infections
New research is making the connection between psychological stress and infectious diseases clearer. This blog explores key data on how the mind affects the body’s ability to fight infections. Scientific evidence now shows that chronic stress, negative emotions, and psychosocial factors can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections and influencing disease progression. I Read the full article…
Psychological impact on cancer
M.A. Visintainer et al. conducted a study with rats. After implantation of a tumor, some were administered electric shocks and some were not. Of the former, some could escape the shocks and some could not [Visintainer et al., 1982]. Afterward, they checked the number of rats that rejected the tumor (and thus were cured). The Read the full article…