In E minor, it is a one-part form.

A [a (measures 1-4) + b (measures 5-8)]

In the first half, 'a', an ascending motion is present, while in the latter half, 'b', a contrast is created by reversing the left and right hands and descending.

The theme has a two-part structure: the first two measures feature a characteristic progression of half notes in stepwise motion, with the main melody proceeding alternately between the left and right hands, delayed by one beat, while the latter two measures feature a motif signifying a cadence.

Slurs in stepwise motion, particularly those in descending stepwise motion, have been referred to as the "sigh motif" since the Baroque era and have been used with a negative connotation. Therefore, when such a motif is observed in a minor key, it evokes the image of the two sick individuals from the work's title, supporting each other and walking feebly.