Inflammatory bowel disease fatigue: an analysis of definitions, risk factors and impact and their implications for assessment and management

Background: Fatigue is an insufficiently understood, assessed and managed symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Aim and method: A literature review using concept analysis was carried out to determine the definitions, risk factors and impact of IBD fatigue and their implications for assessment and management. Findings: The findings suggest that IBD fatigue may be defined as ‘a multifactorial, multidimensional feeling of mental and/or physical weariness, which varies in frequency and severity. It can be overwhelming and is not typically relieved by rest or sleep.’ Conclusions: This definition of IBD fatigue should help patients and clinicians recognise the significance of this symptom and begin a productive dialogue on more effective assessment and management.