THE PREVALENCE OF LOWER URINARY TRACT SYMPTOMS IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

A significant proportion of patients with multiple sclerosis report one or more of urinary symptoms at some time during the course of illness. The aim of this study was to look at the prevalence of urinary symptoms in patients and the factors responsible for these symptoms. This study utilised a cross-sectional design and included 47 patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) who received treatment at the neurology clinics of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. Written informed content was obtained from all. The data was gathered via interviews employing a questionnaire that included demographic details, enquiries pertaining to MS, and an Urdu translation of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). The analysis included both inferential and descriptive statistical approaches using SPSS. The investigation encompassed a cohort of 47 patients of multiple sclerosis. Out of these 47 patients 80.9% of patients reported lower urinary tract symptoms, with higher percentage (91.7%) of men reporting urinary symptoms, compared to percentage of women with such symptoms (77.1%). Mild symptoms were seen in 44.7%, moderate symptoms were seen in 26.3%, and severe symptoms were seen in 28.9%, respectively. Urinary symptoms reported by men and women suffering from multiple sclerosis differed in their characteristics. Men exhibited a higher prevalence of incomplete emptying sensation and dribbling, while women reported urinary frequency and urgency more frequently than their male counterparts. The relationship between advancing age and rising disability showed a positive correlation with the frequency and heightened severity of LUTS. The application of DMT has shown a beneficial effect on patient quality of life through the reduction of LUTS severity. Individuals diagnosed with MS demonstrated a notable prevalence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS). Patients diagnosed with MS and exhibiting elevated EDSS scores demonstrated an increased likelihood of experiencing urinary tract complications. Consequently, it is beneficial for the patients for the healthcare system to implement appropriate protocols that facilitate the prompt identification and treatment of urinary symptoms (LUTS) in those with the multiple sclerosis, aiming to avert additional complications and improve the quality of life (QOL).