Symptom Burden and Sexual Quality of Life in Women With Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis.

Abstract

To evaluate the connection between symptom burden and sexual quality of life in women with idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS). iSGS is a rare fibroinflammatory disorder involving progressive airway narrowing and respiratory distress. While the impact on physical functioning is well-established, the influence of iSGS on sexual health, a key component of quality of life, remains unexplored. Anonymized cross-sectional survey using validated questionnaires. Online international iSGS support group (Living with Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis). The Dyspnea Index (DI), the Female Sexual Quality of Life (SQOL-F) questionnaire, and the Medical Outcomes Health Survey (SF-36) were distributed to an iSGS support group. Only complete responses were analyzed. Associations between DI and sexual quality of life were evaluated using correlation and linear regression. Median-based symptom burden groupings were used for secondary descriptive comparisons. 682 completed all items in the assigned questionnaires and met inclusion criteria. DI scores were inversely correlated with SQOL-F (Rho = -0.305, P < .001). SQOL-F was consistently lower among those with high symptom burden across nearly all items; only partner communication showed no difference. Each one-point increase in DI predicted a 0.61-point decrease in SQOL-F (B = -0.609, P < .001). High-burden patients also reported significantly lower SF-36 Physical (PCS) and Mental (MCS) Component Scores. Greater airway symptom burden in iSGS is associated with significantly diminished sexual and general health-related quality of life. These findings reinforce a need for patient-centered care that considers both physical and psychosocial well-being.