Abstract
Aim This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence and associates of vitamin D deficiency amongst stroke survivors with fatigue and the impact of vitamin D supplementation on fatigue symptoms. Methods This was a retrospective observational study in which records of 58 consecutive stroke survivors with fatigue who had their vitamin D levels checked at presentation were reviewed and analysed. Comparison between groups was assessed using Pearson Chi Square and Fishers Exact tests. Results A total of 58 survivors (mean age 75.8, range 37-94 years) were included, the majority of which were females (56.9%), aged over 75 years (65.5%), lived with a partner (72.4%), were ambulant at presentation (53.4%) and had modified rankin scores (MRS) of <4(79.3%). The over-all prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was 74.5% while the prevalence amongst ambulant survivors was 77.4%. There was significant improvement in fatigue symptoms in 100%of those treated. Conclusion Our results indicate a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency especially amongst ambulant survivors where such deficiencies are unexpected; as well as improvement in symptoms following correction. If replicated in a longitudinal randomised study, this can open treatment options and possibly improve the quality of life of stroke survivors with fatigue. Keywords: Stroke, fatigue, survivors, vitamin D deficiency.
