Associations of Symptoms and Health-Related Quality of Life: Findings from a National Study of Persons with HIV Infection

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Abstract
Health-related quality of life refers to how well people are able to perform daily activities (functioning) and how they feel about their lives (well-being). The relationship between symptoms and health-related quality of life has not been fully explored. To estimate the association of HIV symptoms with health-related quality of life and with disability days. Prospective cohort study. HIV providers in 28 urban and 24 rural randomly selected sites throughout the United States. Nationally representative sample of 2267 adults with known HIV infection who were interviewed in 1996 and again between 1997 and 1998. Symptoms, two single-item global measures of health-related quality of life (perceived health and perceived quality of life), and disability days. White patches in the mouth; nausea or loss of appetite; persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or difficulty catching one's breath; and weight loss were associated with more disability days and worse scores on both health-related quality-of-life measures. Headache; pain in the mouth, lips, or gums; dry mouth; and sinus infection, pain, or discharge were associated with worse perceived health. Pain in the mouth, lips, or gums; trouble with eyes; pain, numbness, or tingling of hands or feet; and diarrhea or loose or watery stools were associated with worse perceived quality of life. Headache and fever, sweats, or chills were associated with more disability days. Several symptoms are associated with worse health-related quality of life and more disability days in persons with HIV infection. In such patients, targeting specific symptoms may improve health-related quality of life and reduce disability.