An investigation into the prevalence of urinary symptoms, faecal incontinence and impact on stroke survivors and their carers

Aims: Little community based research investigates the prevalence of urinary incontinence and other urinary symptoms in stroke survivors. The impact on the lives of survivors and their carers has also received little attention. The aim of this thesis was to address these gaps in the literature. The objectives were to estimate the prevalence of urinary symptoms, faecal incontinence and their impact on the lives of stroke survivors and carers.;Methods: Postal questionnaires and home interviews and administered to assess the prevalence and impact of urinary symptoms, and faecal incontinence in a stroke population. Qualitative interviews explored the impact that urinary incontinence can have on carers.;Results: Thirty-three percent of stroke survivors reported urinary incontinence compared with 14% of the non-stroke population (p<0.0001). After age and sex were controlled for, the difference in prevalence remained significant. Twice as many stroke survivors felt that their urinary symptoms were a moderate to severe problem (p<0.0001). Stroke and urinary incontinence were independently associated with anxiety, depression and had a negative effect on quality of life. It was the severity of urinary symptoms that was associated with this impact. Faecal incontinence was reported in 7.4% of survivors compared with 2.9% of the non-stroke group (p<0.0001) and the prevalence of double incontinence (faecal and urinary) was more than four times higher amongst stroke survivors (p<0.001). Furthermore, incontinence for carers of survivors caused them sleep deprivation, feelings of isolation and a restriction on social activities.;Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of urinary incontinence, other urinary symptoms and faecal incontinence in stroke survivors. These symptoms cause considerable negative impact on the lives of survivors and their carers. Incontinence is a stigmatising condition for those who experience it and for their carers.