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Fatigue in patients with cardiovascular disease
J-M Casillas1, S Damak, J-C Chauvet-Gelinier
1Inserm ERITm 0207, Pôle Rééducation-Réadaptation, CHU de Dijon, 23, rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon cedex, France. jean-marie.casillas@chu-dijon.fr
Summary
Fatigue is a common symptom in cardiovascular disease, impacting quality of life. Understanding physical and mental fatigue mechanisms is key to improving patient independence and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Fatigue is a prevalent symptom in cardiovascular disease (CVD), often preceding diagnosis and significantly reducing quality of life.
- While physical and mental fatigue coexist in CVD, they stem from distinct pathophysiological pathways and clinical presentations.
- The neurobiological underpinnings connecting physical and mental fatigue in CVD are an emerging area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate the mechanisms and clinical features of physical and mental fatigue in cardiovascular disease.
- To explore the neurobiological links between physical and mental fatigue.
- To outline diagnostic and management strategies for fatigue in CVD patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on fatigue in cardiovascular disease.
- Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying physical and mental fatigue.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches, including functional tests for physical capacity and mood disorders.
- Emphasis on personalized management strategies, including rehabilitation.
Main Results:
- Physical fatigue is linked to impaired muscle efficacy due to factors like cardiac output mismatch, deconditioning, and metabolic issues.
- Mental fatigue is associated with mood disorders, notably vital exhaustion.
- Diagnostic evaluation aims to exclude other organic causes of fatigue.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue in CVD requires a nuanced approach, distinguishing between physical and mental components.
- Functional assessments are crucial for tailoring management plans.
- Rehabilitation offers a global approach to reduce fatigue, enhance independence, improve quality of life, and limit mortality.
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