Pain Assessment and Affecting Factors in Hemodialysis Patients

Objective: As a result of long-term damage to the nerves caused by harmful molecules in chronic renal failure patients who are treated with hemodialysis, the clinical manifestation defined as uremic neuropathy may occur in patients. In our study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of neuropathic pain in hemodialysis patients and to evaluate risk factors. Methods: Patients over the age of 18 who underwent hemodialysis treatment were included in our study. Demographic characteristics of the patients, duration of dialysis, and comorbidities were recorded. The Brief Pain Inventory was used to assess the patients’ pain intensity. The Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire and Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire; Short Form was employed for the evaluation of neuropathic pain. Results: Neuropathic pain was detected in 25 (41.7%) of 60 hemodialysis patients. Chronic pain was evaluated with a Likert scale as 0: no pain 10: the worst pain I can imagine. The averages for the past week were categorized as pain worst, pain least, pain average, and pain now, and recorded as 5.9, 6.5, 6.4, and 6.4, respectively. The number of comorbid disorders and the scores of neuropathic pain questionnaire in short form were determined to be statistically associated (P = .040). Conclusion: Neuropathic pain in hemodialysis patients was detected in 41.7% of the patients; it is a common symptom and is associated with the number of comorbid diseases. This study is an exemplary study in terms of evaluating the prevalence of neuropathic pain in hemodialysis patients. It has been a guide to start supportive treatments at an earlier period.