Dehydration associates with lower urinary tract symptoms in progressive multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Urology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are prevalent in people with progressive multiple sclerosis (pwPMS).
• pwPMS may reduce fluid intake due to LUTS, potentially leading to dehydration.
• This study investigated the link between LUTS and hydration status in pwPMS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the hypothesis that LUTS are associated with objective evidence of inadequate hydration in pwPMS.
• To quantify the relationship between LUTS severity and hydration markers.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study followed 55 pwPMS over 2 years.
• First-morning urine specimens were analyzed for osmolality and sodium as hydration markers.
• LUTS severity (urgency, voiding, discomfort) was assessed via questionnaire and correlated with hydration markers, controlling for age.

Main Results:

• Analysis of 274 urine samples revealed inadequate hydration in 47% of participants.
• LUTS, including urgency (87%) and voiding symptoms (89%), were highly common.
• Voiding and discomfort symptoms, but not urgency, correlated with hydration markers.

Conclusions:

• LUTS are common in pwPMS and associated with inadequate hydration.
• The underlying causes and effects of dehydration in MS require further investigation.
• Addressing LUTS and hydration may improve cognitive function and physical performance in pwPMS.