About 9 out of 10 people with MS will have bladder control issues during the course of the disease.1 The earlier symptoms are addressed, the easier they are to treat. It’s important to see your doctor about bladder issues because self-diagnosis is difficult. Symptoms alone aren’t enough for a diagnosis and tests may be necessary.2
Symptoms of bladder dysfunction
- Frequency and/or urgency of urination
- Hesitancy in starting urination
- Frequent nighttime urination (known as nocturia)
- Incontinence (the inability to hold in urine)
- Leaking. Loss of bladder control caused by an overfull bladder, often described as “leaking” or “dribbling”
- Incomplete urination. The feeling after urination that you “still have to go”
- Weak stream. A weak or thin flow during urination
Tips to help manage bladder problems
Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage this multiple sclerosis symptom, so it’s important to bring this issue up at your next appointment.
- Drink water. At least 6 to 8 glasses a day can help wash away bacteria and mineral deposits in the urinary tract
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Both can irritate the bladder
- Plan fluid intake. While you should never limit fluids, plan your liquid intake to avoid sleep interruptions or problems when you’re not near a bathroom
- Drink cranberry juice daily. Cranberry juice decreases the risk of infection. But check the label because many brands blend the cranberry juice with other juices, which decreases the effect on infection
- Wear absorbent pads. These can bring some peace of mind
Downloadable resources
Managing Bowel & Bladder Problems (PDF)
Helpful links
National MS Society Bladder brochure (PDF)
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/Brochures-Controlling%20Bl.asp
Coping with Bladder Problems (FDA publication)
http://www.fda.gov/opacom/lowlit/bladprb.html
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