Wee. Tinkle. Number one. Poop. Doo-doo. Number two. Whatever you call it, everyone does it. Continence refers to the ability to control one’s bladder and bowel movements. For some people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, their symptoms can impact these functions, but it’s important to know there is help and support available.
WHAT IS CONTINENCE?
Continence refers to the ability to control bodily functions, specifically the bladder and bowels. It involves the coordination of muscles, nerves and other bodily functions to regulate the elimination of waste from the body.
HOW CAN MS AFFECT CONTINENCE?
For some people living with multiple sclerosis, the electrical signals between the central nervous system to the bladder and bowel muscles can be interrupted, slowed down or distorted, which can result in symptoms such as frequency, urgency, hesitancy or being unable to empty the bladder or bowel movements properly. There are several different reasons that these symptoms occur, and it is important to understand the underlying cause for the symptoms so that they can be treated and managed effectively.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS MS IS AFFECTING MY CONTINENCE AND WHEN SHOULD I SPEAK TO AN MS NURSE OR GP?
• Increase in frequency and urgency to empty the bladder.
• Finding you’re experiencing leakage.
• Waking up more than twice per night to empty your bladder.
• When you feel that you need to empty your bladder and you go to sit on the toilet and nothing happens.
• When you empty your bladder but within a short time you need to go back to the toilet to finish off.
• Experiencing frequent urinary tract infections.
• Unable to hold your bowels and having faecal accidents.
CAN CONTINENCE ISSUES BE FIXED?
It’s important to note that early intervention is vital, so it’s important not to hesitate in asking for help when signs appear, or educating yourself before they do. Depending on the severity and type of problem, most continence issues can be successfully treated and managed effectively. At the MS Society, our nurses can assist by providing a continence assessment, discussing lifestyle aspects that may be contributing to your symptoms and providing advice. They can also determine if you need to be followed up by your GP or a specialist for further investigation. If conservative measures are not effective, your MS nurse or doctor may discuss other treatments, such as medication or surgical options, depending on your symptoms.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT CONTINENCE ISSUES OR HELP MINIMISE THEM?
• Early intervention is key, so it’s important to reach out to a professional and educate yourself on what’s considered normal and what’s not.
• Look at your drinking habits. The recommended guide for daily fluid intake is between 1500ml to 2000mls, however this can vary for people based on factors such as exercise and hot weather. Aim for clear to pale coloured urine as an indicator of sufficient hydration.
• Reduce caffeine, including soft drinks, and alcohol intake as they can irritate the bladder. Juice and sugar can also have an impact, so it’s best to consume in moderation.
WHAT HELP IS AVAILABLE?
If you are experiencing any symptoms of MS, it’s important to seek help as early as possible. There are various forms of assistance available, including:
• Your MS nurse.
• GP or specialist.
• Pelvic floor physiotherapists.
• MS Australia – http://www.msaustralia.org.au
• Continence Foundation of Australia – http://www.continence.org.au
• Government of South Australia – https://bit.ly/3yR38Iy
Did you know you have access to a specialist MS nurse at the MS Society? If you have any questions or concerns regarding continence or any other symptoms you’d like to discuss, reach out via MS Assist on 1800 812 311.