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OBJECTIVE
To estimate the effect of nocturia on quality of life (QoL) and to assess the associated effects of sleep problems.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS
From a random sample of Dutch adults (≥ 18 years old) 1000 were selected after stratification to complete a written questionnaire. Respondents (819) were distributed over three groups: a target group (189, who felt bothered by ≥ one void/night); a reference group 1 (120 reporting ≥ two voids/night but with no bother); and reference group 2 (510, with 0–1 voids/night). Nocturia, other lower urinary tract symptoms and perceived impact on life were measured using the Bristol Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Questionnaire (B‐LUTS). Sleep problems were measured using the Sleep Wake Experience List (SWEL) and QoL using two subscales from the RAND‐36, i.e. ‘physical functioning’ and ‘mental health’.
RESULTS
The perceived impact on life was highest in the target group (P < 0.05), which also had more sleep problems and scored lower on the QoL scores than both reference groups (P < 0.05). Statistically significant differences in mental health and physical functioning between the target and reference groups became insignificant after correcting for sleep problems, indicating that the effect of nocturia (with bother) is mediated by sleep problems.
CONCLUSIONS
Nocturia may lead to sleep insufficiency and consequently to a decrease in mental and physical health. Patients who consult a doctor for nocturia should thus be treated adequately. In addition, it is worthwhile for doctors to routinely check if patients who contact them for sleep problems also have nocturia.