title: Fatigue in ankylosing spondylitis: causes, consequences and self-management.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To explore the perceived causes, consequences and management of fatigue in ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
  
  
  METHODS
  In this single-cohort qualitative study, ten participants completed a seven-day diary and participated in a semi-structured interview exploring possible causes, consequences and self-management of fatigue. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using 'framework' analysis. Ethical approval was obtained.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three themes emerged: patterns and causes, consequences and management of fatigue. While patients' descriptions of fatigue were similar, the patterns and perceived causes of fatigue varied between individuals. Fatigue impacted on social life, relationships and work. Two approaches to fatigue management were observed: help and support from others and self-management, with four participants having sought medical help for fatigue.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The study suggested that fatigue has a negative impact on quality of life in people with AS. Future practice should include a comprehensive fatigue assessment and the development of treatment programmes directed at enhancing self-management techniques.
authors: North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust Carlisle, UK. wjfarren@btinternet.com
authors: Wendy
authors: W
authors: Farren
authors: Lynne
authors: L
authors: Goodacre
authors: Mark
authors: M
authors: Stigant
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005221:Fatigue / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D012648:Self Care; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013167:Spondylitis, Ankylosing / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy