THE EVOLUTION OF STRESS LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC VIRAL HEPATITIS DURING A BALNEOCLIMATIC STAY

Adelina DAVID,Universitatea de Stat din Moldova

Abstract

Chronic viral hepatitis represents a condition with a significant impact not only on liver function but also on pa- tients’ psycho-emotional status, perceived stress being frequently associated with disease evolution. The aim of this study was to assess the evolution of stress levels in patients with chronic viral hepatitis during a standardized balneo- climatic stay. This prospective observational before–after study included 62 adult patients with chronic hepatitis B or C with minimal activity, hospitalized for an 18-day balneosanatorial program. Perceived stress levels were assessed at admission and discharge using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The results demonstrated a significant reduction in perceived stress, with the disappearance of severe stress at discharge and an increase in the proportion of patients with low stress levels. These findings support the role of balneoclimatic therapy as an effective adjuvant approach in improving psycho-emotional status in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Keywords: chronic viral hepatitis, perceived stress, balneoclimatic therapy, phytotherapy, quality of life, liver, psycho-emotional state.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59295/sum1(191)2026_10