About 10% of people who live with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a bladder problem when they're diagnosed. Around 90 percent of MS patients experience symptoms over the course of their disease. In the short video above, Dr. Rose Khavari, a urologist at Houston Methodist, explains how MS affects the bladder and what treatment options are available.
Bladder function and nerve control
The bladder has two jobs: it needs to hold urine properly, and then empty urine completely. These functions require a high level of neural control from the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. With MS, the lesions in the brain and spinal cord interrupt communication with the bladder and the pelvic floor.
Types of MS bladder problems
MS patients might have a leaky bladder or an overactive bladder. Sometimes they might have an incontinence episode before they make it to the bathroom. When they get to the bathroom, they may have urinary hesitancy, or difficulty starting the flow. (Related: What's the Best Treatment for Overactive Bladder?)
Patients might also have problems emptying their bladder all the way. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones and, eventually, even kidney failure.
Treatment options
If you're struggling with bladder issues as a result of an MS diagnosis, your doctor may recommend:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Behavioral modifications
- Medications
- Bladder Botox
- Neuromodulation
(Related: How Diet Affects Overactive Bladder)
Ask your provider for help
"I really encourage MS patients and their providers to talk about bladder problems openly," says Dr. Khavari. "We can refer them to a urologist with expertise in neurogenic bladder issues."
(Related: Living Well With MS: How to Slow Progression & Reduce Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis)
