Understanding the complexities of our bodies is a continuous journey. Despite being lesser-known, these symptoms are experienced by many people with MS and can significantly impact quality of life.
Multiple Sclerosis and Bladder Function
Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the central nervous system. It disturbs the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and the body. Unfortunately, this disruption can extend to bladder function as well.
Bladder dysfunction in MS is largely due to a breakdown in the intricate communication system between the bladder and the nervous system. This miscommunication can manifest in several ways, leading to varied and sometimes subtle symptoms.
Recognising the Primary Symptoms
Let's take a look at the most common symptoms of MS-related bladder issues:
Frequency and Urgency
The bladder can send "I'm full" signals to the brain too frequently, even when it's not actually full. As a result, people may feel the need to urinate more often than usual, sometimes urgently. This feeling might come out of nowhere, leading to rushed trips to the loo.
Incomplete Emptying and Retention
Sometimes, the bladder doesn't empty completely during urination. This can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure even after using the toilet, and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Nocturia
Nocturia, or waking up frequently to urinate at night, is another symptom to look out for. Disrupted sleep is not something anyone needs on top of the daily grind, and it's important to recognise it as a potential sign of MS-related bladder issues.
Beyond the Obvious: Lesser Known Symptoms
Now, let's talk about some of the less obvious, yet still significant, symptoms that aren't as often reported but could be key to diagnosis.
Hesitancy
Sometimes, you may find it hard to start urinating, even when your bladder feels full. This is known as hesitancy, and it's more common in MS-related bladder issues than you might think (6).
Double Voiding
Some people find that they need to urinate twice within a short span of time. This is called double voiding, and it's due to the bladder not emptying completely the first time.
Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence is when laughter, sneezing, or physical activity cause urine to leak. It can be embarrassing, but it's important to remember that this symptom is relatively common in MS.
Listen to the Anecdotes
Medicine is not an exact science, and sometimes, patients report symptoms that are not commonly recognised in the textbooks. Symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, increased frequency of UTIs, or changes in the colour or smell of urine are worth paying attention to.
Empowerment through better understanding
Understanding MS-related bladder issues can be empowering. The more we know about our bodies, the better we can communicate with healthcare professionals and advocate for our own wellbeing. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to speak up and get the care you need. After all, knowledge is power.
