Engelsk titel: Fatigue in patients following traumatic brain injury and stroke
Läs online
Författare:
Schillinger, Andreas
;
Becker, Frank
Email: frank.becker@sunnaas.no
Språk: Nor
Antal referenser: 54
Dokumenttyp:
Översikt
UI-nummer: 15037974
Sammanfattning
BACKGROUND Fatigue may be defined as an experience of long-term or recurrent tiredness and reduced capacity for mental and/or physical activity,
and is common following acquired brain injury. This article provides an overview of the status of knowledge on fatigue following stroke and traumatic brain
injury.
MATERIAL AND METHOD An assessment of the existing literature, including a literature search, as well as the authors’ own clinical experience form the
basis for the content of this article.
RESULTS Existing studies use varying definitions of fatigue and apply different survey tools. The prevalence of fatigue following stroke or traumatic brain
injury is uncertain due to varying inclusion criteria and survey methods, and because different times of measurement can result in different prevalence
figures. Several studies estimate the prevalence to be between 50 and 70 %. Our knowledge of the pathologic mechanisms is very limited; premorbid,
sociodemographic, stroke/trauma-related and comorbid factors all play a role in the experience of fatigue. Therapeutic interventions include
psychoeducation, regulation of activity, physical exercise and treatment of comorbid conditions. Trials have also been conducted on drug treatment, so far
without convincing results.
INTERPRETATION Fatigue occurs frequently in stroke patients and patients with traumatic brain injuries, and often significantly restricts daily functioning for
these patients. Our knowledge of pathologic mechanisms and evidence with regard to therapeutic interventions is deficient, and the patient population is
heterogeneous. The treatment is adapted to the individual and its objective is to enable individuals to use their limited capacity in the most appropriate way
possible.