Maybe this has happened to you... you’re going about your business when you notice something unusual: an ache, a pain, an itch, a rash. Maybe you can’t even clearly define it, but something’s definitely different. More than likely it’s nothing serious. But – and once the thought enters your mind it’s impossible to ignore – what if it is?!
You wonder if you should have it checked. You don’t want to make what might be multiple trips to doctors, and are even less keen about undergoing uncomfortable tests, but you figure it’s worth the time and trouble. After all, isn’t it best to err on the side of caution? If the test results are normal, it will put your mind at ease and keep you from stressing and worrying any further. Right? Well, not necessarily!
The purpose of a recent systematic review was to find out if patients in situations like the one above were indeed reassured after undergoing diagnostic testing. The review examined the results of 14 randomized controlled trials involving more than 3,820 people between the ages of 32 and 62 (1). All suffered some type of physical symptom (e.g. low back pain, headache) but none were at risk for any serious condition. The diagnostic tests assessed included x-rays, MRIs, scopes such as colonoscopies, as well as those that assess heart function.
What the research tells us
The studies showed that in both the short term (within three months of testing) and longer term (up to 18 months) diagnostic tests did nothing to reduce patients’ worry or anxiety about a potential illness. There was also no impact on how long the symptoms lasted. Testing may result in fewer additional visits to the doctor, however that evidence is weak.
The study results may have important implications for future healthcare practices. Currently, about 17% of visits to the doctor, and more than a third of referrals to specialists, are for symptoms not caused by any serious illness (2). In such cases, medical professionals have to assess whether diagnostic tests are warranted (3) and in weighing the pros and cons, often order tests in the belief that they will reassure patients (4).
So if you notice an unusual symptom, don’t ignore it, but don’t panic! Seek the sound advice of your doctor before assuming you need to undergo a battery of tests.
