Multiple Sclerosis & 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 affect 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 Related to 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.