The Substantial Role of Sleep, Stress, and Physical Activity in Persistent High Levels of Fatigue in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Longitudinal Trajectory Study - Report - MDSpire
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The Substantial Role of Sleep, Stress, and Physical Activity in Persistent High Levels of Fatigue in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Longitudinal Trajectory Study
Longitudinal Analysis of Sleep, Stress, and Activity Impact on Fatigue in IBD
Overview
This longitudinal study identified five distinct fatigue trajectories in 320 IBD patients over five years, with one-third experiencing chronic high fatigue. Persistent sleep problems, perceived stress, and low physical activity were strongly associated with the chronic high fatigue subgroup.
Background
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, often cause persistent fatigue, affecting nearly half of patients and significantly impairing quality of life. Fatigue in IBD is linked to increased healthcare utilization and work productivity loss. Despite its prevalence, the course and risk factors for chronic fatigue in IBD remain poorly understood, limiting targeted treatment strategies.
Data Highlights
Fatigue Trajectory Subgroup
Percentage of Patients
Characteristics
Chronic Stable High Fatigue
33%
Persistent sleep problems, high perceived stress, low physical activity
Other Four Subgroups
67%
Lower or varying fatigue levels with fewer persistent modifiable risk factors
Key Findings
Five distinct fatigue trajectories were identified among IBD patients over five years.
One-third of patients experienced chronic, stable, and high levels of fatigue.
The chronic high fatigue group reported persistent sleep disturbances, high perceived stress, and low physical activity.
Demographic and clinical characteristics showed few differences between fatigue trajectory groups.
Fatigue, stress, sleep, and physical activity levels remained relatively stable over time within subgroups.
Clinical Implications
A single screening for fatigue, sleep quality, stress, and physical activity may effectively identify IBD patients at risk for chronic fatigue. Interventions should focus on managing persistent stress, improving sleep quality, and increasing physical activity to reduce fatigue burden. Personalized fatigue management strategies are warranted given the distinct patient subgroups.
Conclusion
Distinct fatigue trajectories exist in IBD patients, with a significant subgroup experiencing chronic high fatigue linked to modifiable factors. Targeted interventions addressing stress, sleep, and activity may improve fatigue outcomes.
References
Original Article 2024 -- Influence of Sleep, Stress, and Physical Activity on Chronic Fatigue in Individuals With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Longitudinal Analysis
