Predictors of Urinary and Fecal Continence Status After Stroke

Abstract

Urinary incontinence (UI) and fecal incontinence (FI) commonly occur after stroke. The causes are multifactorial. Both conditions can negatively impact recovery, care needs, and health-related quality of life. This study examined if clinical characteristics assessed within two weeks after stroke (baseline) predicted continence at 6 months. The Kansas City Stroke Study, a prospective cohort of 459 subjects examined longitudinally for 6 months using validated functional assessment tools, was used for this analysis. Baseline predictor variables were compared to final continence outcomes assessed with the Barthel Index. Of the 321 eligible subjects who were continent of bladder and bowel pre-stroke, 64 had UI, 48 had FI, and 28 had both at 6 months. Multiple logistic regression models showed age and UI at baseline to be independent predictors for UI. Age, stroke severity, visual impairment, and lack of independence for dressing at baseline were independent predictors for FI at 6 months.