Multiple Sclerosis and Bladder Problems
Multiple sclerosis, often called MS, is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. Because MS can interrupt nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body, it may have an impact on movement, sensation, vision, fatigue, and balance. For some, it can also cause neurogenic bladder or other related bladder problems.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system attacks myelin, which is the protective covering around nerve fibers. When myelin is damaged, nerve signals may slow down, become disrupted, or stop working as they should.
MS can affect people differently depending on where nerve damage occurs. This is why symptoms can vary so much from one person to another.
No two people with MS will experience the condition in exactly the same way.
Common MS Symptoms
MS symptoms depend on which areas of the central nervous system are affected. Symptoms may come and go, change over time, or become more noticeable during a relapse or flare-up.
Common symptoms of MS may include:
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness or spasms
- Balance or coordination problems
- Vision changes
- Brain fog or cognitive changes
- Mobility challenges
- Bladder or bowel issues
If you are experiencing new, worsening, or unexplained symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider or neurologist.
Multiple Sclerosis and Bladder Problems
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system attacks myelin, which is the protective covering around nerve fibers. When myelin is damaged, nerve signals may slow down, become disrupted, or stop working as they should.
MS can affect people differently depending on where nerve damage occurs. This is why symptoms can vary so much from one person to another. No two people with MS will experience the condition in exactly the same way.
Because the bladder relies on nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, bladder, and urinary sphincter, MS can sometimes interfere with bladder storage or bladder emptying. This may lead to bladder problems such as urinary urgency, frequent urination, urinary incontinence, urinary retention, or trouble fully emptying the bladder.
Common Bladder Problems Associated with MS
When MS affects the bladder, symptoms can vary from person to person. Because MS impacts the nerves, it may lead to neurogenic bladder in some cases. Some people may have an overactive bladder, while others may have trouble emptying the bladder completely. Some people may experience more than one type of bladder symptom.
Common bladder problems with MS may include:
- Frequent urination
- Sudden urinary urgency
- Urine leakage or urinary incontinence
- Difficulty starting urination
- Trouble fully emptying the bladder
- Urinary retention
- Recurring urinary tract infections
- Waking up at night to urinate
Bladder symptoms can be frustrating, disruptive, and sometimes difficult to talk about. However, they are also common in people with MS, and treatment options may be available. Talk with your healthcare provider if you notice changes in your bladder routine, recurring urinary tract infections, or concerns about urinary symptoms.
Intermittent Catheterization for MS Bladder Problems
For some people with MS, a healthcare provider may prescribe intermittent catheterization to help empty the bladder. Intermittent catheterization involves inserting a catheter into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine, then removing the catheter after the bladder is empty.
Intermittent catheterization may be recommended for people who have urinary retention, incomplete bladder emptying, or certain neurogenic bladder symptoms. Your doctor or urologist can help determine whether catheterization is appropriate for your symptoms, medical history, and daily needs.
If your healthcare provider prescribes intermittent catheterization, 180 Medical can help you understand your catheter supply options and verify your insurance coverage.
Catheter Options for People With Multiple Sclerosis
People with MS may have different catheter needs depending on hand dexterity, mobility, fatigue, sensitivity, lifestyle, and bladder management routine. Some people may prefer a catheter that is easier to handle, while others may need an option that supports catheterization away from home.
Catheter options may include:
- Straight intermittent catheters
- Hydrophilic catheters
- Closed system catheters
- Pocket catheters and compact travel options
Some catheter options may be easier to handle or use outside the home. Others may help support a no-touch technique or a more discreet catheterization routine. Your healthcare provider can recommend the catheter type that fits your medical needs. Once you have a prescription, 180 Medical can help you review available product options from leading catheter manufacturers.
Need Catheters for MS-Related Bladder Issues?
If your doctor has prescribed intermittent catheterization, 180 Medical can help you explore catheter options based on your prescription, insurance coverage, and personal needs.
Common Questions About MS and Bladder Problems
Can MS cause bladder problems?
Yes. MS can disrupt nerve signals involved in bladder storage and emptying, which may lead to urinary urgency, leakage, retention, or trouble fully emptying the bladder.
How common are bladder problems with MS?
Bladder dysfunction is common in people with MS. According to the National MS Society, bladder dysfunction occurs in at least 80% of people with MS.
Can MS cause urinary incontinence?
Yes. MS may contribute to urinary incontinence when nerve signals affecting the bladder are disrupted. Some people may experience urgency, frequent urination, or urine leakage.
Can MS cause urinary retention?
Yes. Some people with MS may have trouble fully emptying the bladder. This is called urinary retention or incomplete bladder emptying. Urinary retention may cause discomfort and may increase the risk of urinary tract infections, so it is important to discuss symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Can MS cause bowel incontinence or constipation?
Yes. MS may affect the nerve signals involved in bowel control. Some people may experience bowel incontinence, constipation, difficulty fully emptying the bowel, or a combination of symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help determine what may be causing your symptoms and recommend a management plan.
Will I need to use catheters if I have MS?
Not everyone with MS needs to use intermittent catheters. However, if you have urinary retention, incomplete bladder emptying, or certain neurogenic bladder symptoms, your healthcare provider may prescribe intermittent catheterization as part of your bladder management plan.
What catheter type is best for MS bladder problems?
Your healthcare provider is the best source to know what may be right for you if you’re living with MS. Because MS can impact each person so differently, what works well for one person may not work for another.
The best catheter type for you if you have MS bladder problems will depend on your unique needs, including your hand function, mobility, prescription, and insurance coverage.
180 Medical’s specialists can go over what options are available to you. Plus, we can send free samples so you can try and find out what works best for you.
How 180 Medical Supports People With MS
At 180 Medical, we understand that starting catheterization can feel overwhelming. Our trained specialists can help you understand your catheter options, verify your insurance coverage, and request documentation from your healthcare provider.
We offer intermittent catheters from leading manufacturers, including options that may support different dexterity, mobility, and lifestyle needs. We can also provide ongoing support when it is time to reorder your supplies.
Get Help With Intermittent Catheters for MS
If your doctor has prescribed intermittent catheterization for MS-related bladder symptoms, 180 Medical is ready to help you get started.
More Multiple Sclerosis Resources
- National MS Society
- MS International Federation
- NIDDK: Bladder Control Problems and Neurologic Disease
- Cleveland Clinic: Bladder Dysfunction in MS
- Multiple Sclerosis Resources and Support
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Information provided on 180medical.com should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.