Evaluation of Fatigue and its Effects on Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Scientific Background: Fatigue is the most common symptom encountered in multiple sclerosis (MS), and is associated with a high level of disability. MS-related fatigue affects more than 90 % of those with MS. Over half of whom have reported that it is the single most disabling symptom that they experience. The diagnosis and management of fatigue in MS are complicated by number issues. While fatigue affects the majority of person with MS. its pathophysiology remains poorly understood. Objectives: The aims of the present study were; ta determine the degree and the quality of fatigue in MS patients, to evaluate the effects of fatigue on physical, cognitive, psychosocial functions and activities, to examine the effects of fatigue on patients with different disability levels .Material and Methods: 209 MS patients (146 female, 63 male) were enrolled to the present study. in order to determine the disability level Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used. The degree and the quality of fatigue were examined by fatigue questionnaire. The effects of fatigue on functions were evaluated by Modified Fatigue fmpact Scale (MFIS). The effect of MS on activities was examined by Sickness fmpact Profile (SIP). Results: Fatigue was reported in 78% of the patients. Fatigue was the most important cause of unemployment among MS population (p< 0,05). It was found that secondary progressive MS patients had higher MFIS scores than relapsing-remitting MS patients (p< 0,05). Patients with high EDSS scores had high MF/5 scores (p< 0,05). Positive correlation was found between MF/5 physical score and SIP physical score (r=0,62), 5/P psychosocial score (r=0,50) and total 5/P score (r=0,70) ). Positive correlation was found between MF/5 cognitive score and SIP psychosocial score (r=0,66). An important correlation was found between MF/5 psychosocial score and 5/P physical score (r=0,52)and total SIP score (r=0,58). Asimilar correlation was seen between MF/5 total score and 5/P psychosocial score (r=0,69) and total 5/P score (r=0,69). A negativecorrelation was found between health point indicating perceived health conditionand MF/5 physical score (r=0,56) and total MF/5 score (r=0,52). Conclusion: Fatigue is now recognized as the most common symptom of MS and very important complaint in the life of MS patients.