Multiple Sclerosis and Bladder Function

For many people, living with MS means coping with decreased bladder function. That’s because an MS lesion in the brain or spinal cord can block the signal from the nervous system that controls bladder muscles and the urinary sphincters that regulate the urine stream. This can create problems with either urine storage or emptying. People who cannot fully empty their bladders are at a higher risk for developing a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Determining with your healthcare provider what type of bladder dysfunction you have is usually straightforward. The most common method is to measure how much leftover or residual urine is in the bladder after it is emptied. This can be done either by inserting a catheter, removing the residual urine and measuring, or by taking images of the bladder using an ultrasound. In both cases, if the residual amount is less than 100ml, the problem may be storage. If it is greater than 100ml, the problem may be incomplete emptying.

Potential symptoms include:

People with MS can help take control of their bladder function by taking certain medications as prescribed, being aware of their surroundings, and planning ahead. In some cases, your doctor may recommend Kegel exercises, or suggest using incontinence pads or catheters.

Typically, your neurologist will try several ways to treat bladder dysfunction; however, if he or she is unsuccessful, you may be referred to a urologist.