symptom severity scales

Symptom severity scales are tools used to measure how intense or debilitating a person's symptoms are, often in relation to health conditions. They typically range from mild to severe, allowing individuals to self-report their experiences. This helps healthcare professionals understand the impact of symptoms on a person’s daily life, enabling better treatment plans. Examples include scales that ask patients to rate pain or anxiety levels from 1 to 10. By assessing severity, doctors can tailor care and monitor progress, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.