CARE ASSISTANT
NLMultiple Sclerosis (MS)
A disease of the central nervous system that affects bladder and bowel control.
In multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibres. Communication between the brain and the pelvic floor is disrupted.
A large majority of people with MS experience bladder or bowel symptoms: overactive bladder (urgency, frequency) or difficulty storing and emptying urine. Solutions exist for each situation.
More Informations
A neurological disease that can affect bladder and bowel, with adapted solutions.
Definition
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that damages the sheath of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Signals to the bladder and bowel can be disrupted: urgency, leaks or difficulty emptying.
Causes
An immune reaction against myelin; the lesions disrupt transmission between the brain and pelvic organs.
Diagnosis
- Brain and spinal MRI showing the lesions.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in some cases.
- Urodynamic assessment to clarify bladder function.
Treatments
Disease-modifying treatments slow the disease. For the bladder: rehabilitation, medicines, self-catheterisation if emptying is incomplete, botulinum toxin injections in some cases. Neuro-urology follow-up adapts the solutions over time.
In multiple sclerosis, leaks vary with relapses and fatigue. Flexi absorbent underwear on good days, a Combi brief with tabs when mobility is reduced, and a Mati underpad at night: the choice adapts to each period.
Educational content written for families and caregivers. It does not replace a consultation: a doctor, a continence nurse or a physiotherapist makes the diagnosis and chooses the treatment.