The relationship between pain, fatigue, depression and functional performance in stable heart failure

Evaluate the relationship between pain, fatigue, depression, demographic, clinical, and functional variables in stable heart failure (HF).

Pain, fatigue and depression are common in HF. Little is known about the relationship between pain, fatigue and depression and functional measures in this population.

Secondary data analysis of a cross sectional study of 173 stable HF patients. Associations between clinical and demographic factors, pain (SF-36), depression (CES-D), and fatigue (MAF) to functional performance and capacity (SF-36 role limitations due to physical functioning and 6-Minute Walk Test) were evaluated using hierarchical multiple regressions.

The sample was 65% male with a mean age of 60. Fifty-seven percent (n = 100) had pain, 54% (n = 94) had fatigue, and 46% (n = 79) had depression. Pain, depression and fatigue were negatively associated with functional performance but not functional capacity when controlling for demographic and clinical covariates.

Pain, fatigue and depression were associated with decreased functional performance in stable HF. Symptom management interventions are needed in HF.