OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to review and identify HRQL dimensions in dry and wet OAB patients through literature review and patient interviews. METHODS: A literature review on OAB HRQL was performed using the EMBASE database.  Specialized forums were also searched for relevant HRQL issues reported by OAB patients. A trained psychologist conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 2 clinical experts and 30 patients in the UK recruited through general practitioners. Clinical experts were asked to identify key concepts attributable to the overactive bladder (symptoms). Patients were asked to describe their symptoms and impact on HRQL and rate them. All patient responses were coded using code frequency and bother ratings. RESULTS: Seven men, 23 women were interviewed; the majority of patients were older than 65 years. 50% of the patients were incontinent. Preliminary analysis suggests that OAB affects the patient’s quality of life on several aspect of their life: psychological (embarrassment and worry), occupational limitations, domestic (usual activities) and limitations in leisure activities. All patients reported that feeling the need to go ‘’too often’’ to the bathroom (urgency and frequency) led to significant limitations such as avoidance of any unplanned activities. HRQL concepts were similar across the different age group. As expected, patients suffering from urgency incontinence reported this symptom as being the most impactful, especially in terms of embarrassment and worry. CONCLUSIONS: Although the impact of all OAB symptoms was found to be significant and similar across all patients regardless of their age, the greatest impact or burden of OAB was felt and reported by wet patients compared to dry patients.