7 Tips for Dealing With MS-Related Urinary Problems

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that disrupts the nerve signals from the brain to various parts of the body. For some MS patients, this could mean signals to the bladder muscles are compromised leading to urinary problems such as urgency, needing the bathroom throughout the night, and incontinence.

There are ways to help MS patients manage urinary problems and we’ve put together a list of useful tips based on information from WebMD.com.

Changes in Diet

Limiting the amount of fluid you consume during the day and particularly in the evening may help to relieve some urinary problems. Excess caffeine and alcohol may also cause problems so either avoid or severely limit your consumption of these.

Bladder Training

Training your bladder may help to strengthen the bladder muscles. Start by setting a schedule of when you visit the bathroom and gradually lengthen the time between each visit until you can comfortably hold your bladder for a few hours at a time.

Timed/Prompted Voiding

If you sometimes struggle to get to the bathroom in time due to urinary urgency, then this approach may work for you. Timed voiding means that you visit the bathroom to a set schedule to help avoid any situation where you desperately need to go.

If the person needs a caregiver to help them to the bathroom, then they may need to work together to come up with a prompted schedule of bathroom visits.

MORE: How stress affects multiple sclerosis symptoms

Kegel Exercises

Not just for pregnant women! Kegel exercises can help strengthen bladder muscles making it easier to hold your urine for longer periods of time.

Absorbent Products

While undergoing bladder training you may feel more secure if you wear absorbent products. There are various products available from pads, to underwear that you can wear that are discreet enough to wear under most clothes.

Medications and Medical Intervention

Discuss any urinary problems with your doctor as there may be medications available that can help with your particular issue.

In moderate to severe cases, doctors may advise the use of a catheter or urethral insert where the urine can be directly drained from the bladder. If all other avenues have failed, your doctor may suggest you undergo surgery to help strengthen the bladder muscles.

MORE: Seven strange and unusual multiple sclerosis symptoms

Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.