Research code: PSYE-202505-1124
Ethics code: PSYE-202505-1124
Clinical trials code: IRCT20220808055640N1
1- 1. PhD Student, Department of Psychology, Psychology and Educational Science Faculty, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
2- 2. Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Psychology and Educational Science Faculty, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. ,mfiroozy@ut.ac.ir
3- 3. Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2- 2. Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Psychology and Educational Science Faculty, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. ,
3- 3. Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract: (19 Views)
Introduction: Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) experience a wide range of symptoms, some of which may receive less attention due to the absence of visible clinical signs. The present study was conducted to explore the underlying themes and lived experiences of patients regarding their invisible symptoms. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using a reflective thematic analysis approach. Twelve patients with MS were purposively recruited from individuals referred to the Tehran MS Society during the spring and summer of 2025. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed according to the six-phase framework proposed by Virginia Braun and Victoria Clarke. Results: The mean age of participants was 35 years (range: 21–52 years). Data analysis yielded six main themes reflecting the hidden dimensions of patients’ experiences, including endless and unpredictable fatigue, alienation from the body and the intrusion of unfamiliar sensations, living under the shadow of fear and hypervigilance, loss of bodily control accompanied by shame, cognitive slowing and self-doubt regarding intellectual abilities, and a distressing paradox of an exhausted body despite sleeplessness. Conclusion: Invisible symptoms profoundly affect patients’ body image and psychological well-being, placing them at risk of social isolation. These findings underscore the importance of clinicians’ attention to patients’ subjective psychological and mental symptoms alongside observable clinical signs and highlight the need for an empathetic approach in assessment and care.
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