Lived experience of MS-related fatigue—a phenomenological interview study

Fatigue is a major problem among individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), but its meaning in daily living is unclear. The aim was to describe MS-related fatigue as lived by a group of individuals diagnosed with MS. Interviews with nine individuals were analysed from a phenomenological perspective. Main findings: MS-related fatigue is living with a time-consuming and all absorbing phenomenon, involving the body and the whole human being. Fatigue is commonly non-constructively perceived and expressed in terms of energy loss, emotional afflictions, dependency and restrictions of life in general, however, it is also constructively perceived and involves a desire to accept life and strive for a better situation. Conclusion: MS-related fatigue is a comprehensive phenomenon and its relationship with self-care requires further investigation.