Diagnosed and living with fibromuscular dysplasia: A qualitative inquiry

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a vascular disorder about which little has been known until recently. Patients with FMD may suffer from hypertension, aneurysms, or strokes, as well as symptoms associated with local artery damage. As a result of advances in vascular medicine and growing outcomes registries, we now have a better understanding of the FMD disease process and epidemiology. Nevertheless, the consequences of FMD on patients’ day-to-day experiences and mental health status are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to begin to identify and characterize the experiences of living with FMD from the perspective of the patient using qualitative inquiry. Interviews with 19 FMD patients (18 female, 1 male) were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and content analyzed. Individuals with FMD reported a complex array of psychological, physical, emotional, social, and health care concerns, which may be underdiagnosed. Findings suggest new opportunities for enhancing patient care.