Does fatigue after stroke influence long-term outcomes?

This study evaluated whether fatigue in the acute (immediate) phase following a stroke predicts physical and mental health outcomes.

Fatigue often manifests as physical and mental lack of energy. Post-stroke fatigue does not always improve and is not necessarily related to recent activity. Therefore, fatigue differs from typical tiredness. Many patients mention fatigue as one of the most difficult steps to which they have to adjust. Although fatigue is very common among patients with chronic neurological problems, post-stroke fatigue is still an unexplored condition and often neglected. It is therefore important to understand whether fatigue, particularly during this acute phase after stroke, is a risk factor for future physical or mental troubles.

This study evaluated 96 patients who were admitted to the hospital for a first stroke. They were evaluated within 2 weeks of the stroke (acute phase) through a questionnaire regarding their fatigue level, depression, physical or mental health. After a period of 18 months of follow-up, physical health scores improved but mental health, fatigue, and depressive symptom scores did not change significantly over time. Therefore, acute phase fatigue was associated with physical and mental health during the acute phase, but was only associated with physical health at the 18-month follow-up. Depressive symptoms during the acute phase were associated with physical and mental health, both during the acute phase and at 18 months. Physical and mental health, were correlated with each other during the acute phase, but not at follow-up.

In summary, this study showed that acute phase fatigue after a stroke predicts lower physical health at 18-month follow-up.

Fatigue management should be included in clinical guidelines for stroke treatment and rehabilitation. Further studies should report whether treatment of acute phase fatigue contributes to a better recovery.

Consult with your doctor about ways to change your lifestyle for your benefit and how you can improve your quality of life after a stroke.