A qualitative exploration of physical, mental and ocular fatigue in patients with primary Sjogren's Syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) affects exocrine glands such as those producing the tear film, leading to dry and painful eyes, but is also associated with fatigue. The experience of fatigue in pSS, and its relationship with sicca symptoms, is poorly understood.

Methods

Twenty people diagnosed with pSS were recruited to participate in a semi-structured qualitative interview about their symptoms experience. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

People with pSS described physical tiredness, mental fatigue and ocular fatigue. Mental fatigue was characterised by difficulties in attention, particularly, the ability to follow conversations and short-term memory problems. Participants linked their exp

SUBMITTER: Stack RJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5663496 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature