Anna-Lena Brecher, Julia Herrgen, Tobias Mueller
DiGA in Primary Care and the Influence of Patient-Related Factors - Results of a Survey of Family Doctors
Studies in health technology and informatics
although neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder nmosd high recurrence disability rates cases relapses recognized timely intervention provided risk relapse properly perceived however studies explore patients perceptions recurrence risk coping strategies study aimed explore characteristics relapse risk perception coping strategies patients nmosd adopted phenomenological method qualitative research facetoface semistructured indepth interviews conducted 15 patients nmosd interview data analyzed using colaizzi sevenstep analysis analysis revealed five major themes first theme perception possibility relapse included subjectively underestimating likelihood relapse shifted underestimation overestimation second theme relapse warning signs perception third theme perception relapse triggers included understanding relapse triggers potential misconceptions relapse triggers identifiable cause recurrence fourth theme perception relapse consequences encompassing severe impairment body structure function prominent psychological problems limited family roles social functions heavy financial burden final theme relapse risk coping strategies included actively yearning seeking information support recurrence risk preventionmanagement limitations coping strategies studys findings revealed newly diagnosed patients well relapsed subjectively underestimated likelihood relapse experienced multiple two relapses contrast patients experienced multiple relapses transitioned initial underestimation subsequent overestimation additionally patients compliance medication identified relapserisk behaviors manageable occurrence relapse associated significant extensive adverse effects patients consequently patients eager communicate healthcare providers regarding treatment planning relapse management