Impact of sexual and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction on multiple sclerosis patients' quality of life and health perceptions

Purpose: To investigate the impact of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) and sexual dysfunction (SD) on multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' quality of life and health perceptions and evaluate the possible relationship with disease parameters. Materials and Methods: A total of 192 patients with MS were included in the study. Along with the King's Health (KHQ) and COOP/WONCA questionnaires, Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), Beck Depression Scale (BDI), Monitoring My Multiple Sclerosis Scale (MMMS) were used to evaluate the patients' quality of life and self -perception of health. Results: The median age of the patients was 39.5 years (18-66 years). In contrast, SD was present in 34.4%, 51.6% of the patients presented with NLUTD. Patients with NLUTD had significant differences in terms of age, education level, duration of disease, EDSS, BDI, ASEX, and MMMS scores. The majority of the study group had minor disability (82.8% had an EDSS score less than 3). Patients with SD showed higher disability, depression, and disrupted self-perception of their health status. In addition, quality of life measures correlated with the presence of NLUTD, SD and depression along with higher disability and altered self perception of their health status. Conclusion: NLUTD and SD significantly effect quality of life and well being. Increasing awareness about the impact of NLUTD and SD symptoms in patients with MS will provide a comprehensive approach in clinical practice.