Post-stroke fatigue level is significantly associated with mental health component of health-related quality of life: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose Individuals post-stroke might have high levels of post-stroke fatigue (PSF) which might affect their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of post-stroke fatigue in Jordan and to comprehensively identify its possible associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional design was implemented through one-hour face-to-face assessment sessions. The modified fatigue impact scale, 12-item Short-Form Health Survey, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Motor Assessment Log, Upper Extremity Fugl Meyer assessment, Nine Hole Peg Test, 10 Meter Walk Testing, active and passive goniometry, Hand-held dynamometry, and modified Ashworth scale were used as outcome measures. Prevalence of post-stroke fatigue and levels of quality of life were reported using descriptive analyses. Multiple variable linear regression analysis was used to identify PSF associated factors of post-stroke fatigue. P < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical tests. Results 153 individuals with stroke participated in the study. A total of 117 participants (69.9%, 95% CI = 62.0–77.1%) were fatigued. Fatigue was significantly predicted by mental component of quality of life (β −0.42 [95% CI −0.53–−0.31]; p < 0.001), cognition (β −0.69 [95% CI −1.08–−0.29], p = 0.001), weekly sport hours (β −0.94 [95% CI −1.73–−0.14], p = 0.022), and shoulder abduction spasticity (β −1.81 [95% CI −3.38–−0.24], p = 0.024. The model explained 51% of the variation in the fatigue (F = 29.006, p < 0.001). Conclusion Jordanian individuals with stroke have a high prevalence of fatigue. Mental related quality of life was significantly associated with PSF levels. Other factors significantly associated with PSF included cognition status, sport participation, and spasticity. Healthcare practitioners working in neurorehabilitation should take PSF and its significant correlates into consideration when treating individuals with stroke.