Exploring our understanding of fatigue among adolescents living with HIV: Highlighting the unknown

J Health Psychol. 2019 Jan;24(1):125-136. doi: 10.1177/1359105317710320. Epub 2017 May 19.

Abstract

Due to antiretroviral therapies, HIV is now a chronic illness rather than a terminal disease. Chronic symptoms, including fatigue, should be identified and managed to prevent or minimise their potential negative consequences. We apply a Symptom Management Model to conceptualise fatigue among adolescents with HIV. In the context of minimal research, we seek to identify a research agenda for resource-constrained contexts, where HIV prevalence remains high and treatment adherence is a significant problem. By better understanding and addressing the symptom of fatigue, treatment adherence, occupational, social and emotional functioning could be improved. We highlight conceptual, methodological and measurement-related caveats.

Keywords: HIV; adolescents; fatigue; symptom management model.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Fatigue* / diagnosis
  • Fatigue* / etiology
  • Fatigue* / physiopathology
  • Fatigue* / therapy
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male