ABSTRACT
Tatyana Mollayeva Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, 550 University Avenue, Rm 11120, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2A2. Tel: 416-5973422 ext 7848; Fax: 416-946-8570
Colin M. Shapiro Toronto Western Hospital, 399 Bathurst Street, Rm 7MP421, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8. Tel: 416-603-5800 ext 5160; Fax: 416-603-5292
Corresponding author: Tatyana Mollayeva, E-mail: tatyana.mollayeva@utoronto.ca
ABSTRACT
Fatigue is a complex nonspecific symptom that is commonly experienced after a period of mental or physical activity, but can also be the result of other causes where energy expenditure exceeds restorative processes. When excessive, fatigue affects every aspect of one’s life, decreasing physical and mental capacity, changing roles and relationships, and causing social isolation. Research in this area has provided foundational knowledge on the mechanisms of fatigue, its correlates, and management. Despite the complexity of the symptom, and the need for comprehensive investigation for its identification and determination of etiology, several targeted interventions have been described with encouraging
results. The continuous and multifactorial nature of fatigue calls for a patient-centered, flexible, and broad approach to its management.
