Elizabeth M Marks1, Myra S Hunter2. 1. Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, University College London Hospitals, London, UK. 2. Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The term 'Medically Unexplained Symptoms' (MUS) is used by health professionals and researchers to refer to persistent bodily complaints, including pain and discomfort. AIMS: This study explores the views held by a lay sample on the clinical terminology used to describe 'MUS', to ascertain reasons for particular preferences and whether preferences differ between individuals who experience more somatic symptoms. DESIGN AND METHODS: A sample (n = 844) of healthy adults completed an online survey, which included a questionnaire measuring somatic symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15)) and a question about their preferences for terminology used to describe MUS. RESULTS: Of 844 participants, 698 offered their preferences for terminology. The most popular terms were 'Persistent Physical Symptoms' (20%) and 'Functional Symptoms' (17%). 'MUS' (15%), 'Body Distress Disorder' (13%) and 'Complex Physical Symptoms' (5%) were less popular. And 24% indicated no preference, but high PHQ-15 scorers were more likely to express preferences than low scorers. CONCLUSION: Persistent Physical Symptoms and Functional Symptoms are more acceptable to this sample of healthy adults than the more commonly used term 'MUS'.
BACKGROUND: The term 'Medically Unexplained Symptoms' (MUS) is used by health professionals and researchers to refer to persistent bodily complaints, including pain and discomfort. AIMS: This study explores the views held by a lay sample on the clinical terminology used to describe 'MUS', to ascertain reasons for particular preferences and whether preferences differ between individuals who experience more somatic symptoms. DESIGN AND METHODS: A sample (n = 844) of healthy adults completed an online survey, which included a questionnaire measuring somatic symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15)) and a question about their preferences for terminology used to describe MUS. RESULTS: Of 844 participants, 698 offered their preferences for terminology. The most popular terms were 'Persistent Physical Symptoms' (20%) and 'Functional Symptoms' (17%). 'MUS' (15%), 'Body Distress Disorder' (13%) and 'Complex Physical Symptoms' (5%) were less popular. And 24% indicated no preference, but high PHQ-15 scorers were more likely to express preferences than low scorers. CONCLUSION: Persistent Physical Symptoms and Functional Symptoms are more acceptable to this sample of healthy adults than the more commonly used term 'MUS'.
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