Quality of life in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: To describe quality of life (QOL) and the factors that affect QOL in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methodology: The sample consisted of 60 MS patients from neurology outpatient clinics of Yakutiye Hospital in eastern Turkey; they were included in the study between December 2008 and June 2009.

Results: The mean score of the physical health composite of QOL was 46.25± 23.95, of mental health composite was 46.63± 24.34. QOL was affected by factors such as age, gender, education, employment status, income level, place of residence and duration of illness. There is a negative and significant correlation between the fatigue severity and the areas of QOL, such as, physical health and mental health. Also, there is a negative and significant correlation between depression and QOL.

Conclusions: Reduction of depressive symptoms and fatigue may be the decisive factors in improving QOL. Increased use of active coping strategies may put patients at risk of decreased fatigue and depressive symptoms.