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Bladder or Bowel Dysfunction

Share your experience with bladder or bowel dysfunction. Get the conversation started.

  1. I can't tell when I need to urinate. I put myself on a bathroom schedule. I have not had any accidents, but am wondering if this is a common problem.

    1. this has been a problem for me too. And with overactive bladder (OAB), I've had quite a few episodes of incontinence at home and in public. My urologist put me on a medication called Gemtessa for OAB which has been life-changing. I also try to schedule bathroom breaks in my head every couple of hours. And if I plan on being anywhere, even in my garden, I'll go to the bathroom beforehand so I don't get caught unexpectedly by urgency. Even with my medication, I still wear a pad when I go out in public just in case.

    2. I have the total opposite. I have trouble urinating and making bowl movements which is awful. I'm currently on meds to help me pass urine easier but when I have to go i usual feel it and then it goes away. Dont let me hold it in, it's a lot worse to go to the bathroom. Keeping a mental note helps me stay mindful of my bladder.

  2. Skymom, it sure is! I have trouble urinating when I can feel my bladder is full. I used to have urgency, but I take Vesicare for that. It's good that you go on a regular schedule, our doctors say we need to void 4-7 times a day to prevent bladder infections. You're not alone 😀

    Kim, moderator

    1. Oh wow, I had that problem before losing 40 pounds! I hope you can find something that works with depends that works better. Hugs, Kim, moderator

    2. I have this same problem. It is so frustrating! I've had 3 colonoscopies and endoscopies in 6 years with no real answers. I will be turning 50 in December and it's heartbreaking to have to deal with this symptoms of MS at this age.

  3. I have bladder urgency and sometimes do not make it to the toilet in time. I work full time and teach classes for adults. This is very embarrassing when I have to make an excuse, practically run from the room and then return in different clothes. I take medication but it does not work very well anymore and I know that most of the drugs can cause "brain fog". Does anyone know of, or has anyone tried anything that works well?

    1. , I love hearing about what has worked for members of this community, as I think it is good information for those still seeking relief from symptoms like bladder/bowel problems.

      Thanks for taking the time to join this conversation.

      Best, Erin, Team Member.

    2. same here. Ive been using generic Detrol for a long time...2mg and I can't always get to the bathroom in time but it seems to work pretty well for me and im 71 yrs old. You might ask your Dr about that.

  4. Hi ! I am sorry you are dealing with this issue. Our contributors have written articles on this topic. Many of the suggestions include medication, but some of the non-medical tips might be something to try! https://multiplesclerosis.net/symptoms/urinary-incontinence-frequency-retention-bladder-dysfunction/ I hope this helps a little. You are not alone in this. Wishing you a good afternoon, Erin (MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member).

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