The day-to-day experiences of people with fatigue after stroke: Results from the Nottingham Fatigue After Stroke study

Background/AimsPost-stroke fatigue is common and impacts on patient outcomes.Our aim was to investigate day-to-day experiences of fatigue six months after stroke. MethodsParticipants were identified from a cohort study of fatigue (NotFAST) which excluded those with depression and aphasia.Participants who reported high fatigue scores at six months post-stroke were interviewed individually.Data were analysed thematically. FindingsTwenty-two participants were interviewed.Fatigue was reported to impact on instrumental activities of daily living, leisure activities, social relationships and work life.Variations in fatigue were reported throughout the day and over the longer term.Triggers included physical and mental exertion, and periods of inactivity.Self-devised management strategies included daytime rest or sleep, pacing activities, making compromises, accepting help from others, and keeping active.It was sometimes unclear whether fatigue was a specific result of stroke or due to ageing, poor health, or sleep disturbance.Few participants had received specific information or advice about fatigue. ConclusionsFatigue is an important issue, even after mild stroke.Stroke survivors felt ill-equipped to manage their fatigue and often struggled to adapt.There is a need for improved information provision and educational interventions to prepare survivors for the impact of fatigue.