Perception of and Response to Symptoms of Illness in Sweden and the United States

“I Didn’t Know What Was Wrong:” How People With Undiagnosed Depression Recognize, Name and Explain Their Distress

“…Our findings also suggest ways in which theories of diagnostic delay, illness cognition and health behavior change can inform interventions to improve depression care. 25,28,29,36 Whereas research on diagnostic and treatment delay tends to emphasize physician factors (such as misattribution), our findings underscore the importance of patient-related delay. 25,36 For example, "not-knowing" can be seen as a type of appraisal delay.…”

“…25,28,29,36 Whereas research on diagnostic and treatment delay tends to emphasize physician factors (such as misattribution), our findings underscore the importance of patient-related delay. 25,36 For example, "not-knowing" can be seen as a type of appraisal delay. While "knowing" can promote care-seeking, sometimes patients come to "know" that something is awry during discussions with physicians about experiences that initially seem unrelated to depression, such as pain, fatigue, and a vague sense of "just not feeling right.…”

Variables affecting the reporting of pain following an acute myocardial infarction

“…In England and Vermont individuals in the 26 middle socioeconomic group were more likely to see a physician than those in the highest and lowest categories. Both Andersen et al (1968) and Bice and White (1969) found that agricultural workers were significantly less likely to consult a physician than non-agricultural workers.…”

“…While some researchers have demonstrated that persons in lower socioeconomic classes are less likely to report symptoms, or seek medical help in response to these symptoms (Koos, 1954;Richardson, 1970), other investigators have reported contrary findings (Andersen, Anderson, & Smedby, 1968;Bice and White, 1969).…”

“…Marital status has also been found to be a factor in symptom reporting (Andersen et al, 1968) and pain ratings (Bruegel, 1971 …”