Bladder problems plague 90 percent of MS patients. Some have to pee frequently, some experience urine leakage, some have frequent UTI’s, some have little warning before they have to go (urgency) and some can’t get the urine stream started (hesitancy). Sometimes these symptoms are so limiting that it keeps patients from leaving their home.
The urinary problems stem from interruption of the messages sent from the brain and spinal cord to the bladder. The problem is compounded by poorer mobility making it difficult for MS patients to get to the bathroom in time. These issues need to be addressed in a timely fashion to avoid complications of infection and developing renal stones.
The amount of urinary dysfunction correlates with the degree of disability and often manifests 6-8 years after the diagnosis. There are treatments such as medications (anticholinergics), antibiotics, catheterization, Botox, electrical stimulation, pelvic floor exercises, and acupuncture.
BeCare MS can help by helping you track your disability to help you and physician optimize your MS treatment.