Illness Perception Among Patients With Hypertension in Nepal

Abstract

Illness perception among hypertensive patients influences their coping behavior. The aim of the study was to assess illness perception among patients with hypertensive in Nepal. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. We recruited 85 patients with hypertension registered at the out- patient department of Sahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, Nepal and collected data using the Extended Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. Hypertensive patients had a moderate threatening view about their illness. Patients represented hypertension as a long-lasting illness that can be controlled with treatment. Patients believed hypertension might have serious consequences associated with heart attack, brain hemorrhage, paralysis of body and death. The overriding causes of hypertension as perceived by patients were unhealthy diet and stress. Patients favored taking medicines than lifestyle modifications for controlling their blood pressure. These illness perceptions of patients were influenced by the experiences and information inherent in Nepalese culture. Assessing illness perception helps to understand hypertensive patients’ implicit views regarding their illness and contributes to their better management. The findings can be used as baseline information to understand illness perception among patients with hypertension in Nepalese community and further develop an intervention.