[Association between anxiety and depression in allergic illnesses]

Vertex. 2013 Jul-Aug;24(110):253-8.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

This study aims at determining whether there was an association among anxiety, depression and allergic illnesses. It suggests the proper therapeutic treatment. During a year, our research work team worked with a group of 82 female and male patients (from 13 to 76 years old) who suffered from various types of allergies. Two psychometric scales were used to carry out this study: Hamilton's scale for anxiety whereas Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and Zung's for depression. The association and its percentage were analyzed in patients who reported typical symptoms during their first check-up. They were free of psychopharmacologic drugs and psychotherapies. The presence of anxiety and depression was interpreted as another factor in the development of allergic symptoms. The following results were achieved as regards: for anxiety, an association positive 95 %. For depression, the results showed that there was a positive tendency for the association with an allergic illness. The conclusions showed that there is a positive association between anxiety and allergies. As regards depression and allergic illness, there is only a positive tendency. These final results would raise awareness of how to deal with anxiety and depression in allergic patients, both psychopharmacologically and psychotherapeutically.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anxiety / epidemiology
  • Anxiety / etiology*
  • Depression / epidemiology
  • Depression / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / complications*
  • Hypersensitivity / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Young Adult