Are activity limitations associated with lower urinary tract symptoms in stroke patients? A cross-sectional, clinical survey

OBJECTIVE: To assess self-reported activity limitations in a clinical sample of stroke patients and to identify their association with prevalence, severity and impact on daily life of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, clinical survey was initiated whereby stroke patients were invited to complete four activity limitations measurements: Barthel Index, mobility velocity, mobility distance, mobility aids and one LUTS measurement: the Danish Prostatic Symptom Score (DAN-PSS-1) questionnaire. Of 519 stroke patients, 482 subjects were eligible. RESULTS: The response rate was 84%. The activity limitations were reported by 17-34% depending on the measurement. Mobility velocity was highly significantly associated (p=0.01) with severity of LUTS. In the LUTS incontinence symptom group, Barthel Index and mobility velocity were significantly associated with prevalence [p=0.03, odds ratio (OR) 2.08 and p=0.05, OR 1.87, respectively]. Barthel Index and mobility distance were also associated with severity (p=0.03 and p=0.04, respectively) and Barthel Index was associated with the prevalence of bother (p=0.02, OR 2.12). CONCLUSION: This study indicate for the first time that activity limitations are closely related to LUTS in stroke patients and that rehabilitation should also be directed towards the treatment of LUTS.