What are the next treatment options when solifenacin and intermittent self-catheterization aren't controlling bladder symptoms?
When current bladder management isn't working well enough, there are several additional options to discuss with your healthcare team:
Botox injections for the bladder are a common next step. These Show Full Answer
What are the next treatment options when solifenacin and intermittent self-catheterization aren't controlling bladder symptoms?
When current bladder management isn't working well enough, there are several additional options to discuss with your healthcare team:
Botox injections for the bladder are a common next step. These injections help reduce bladder spasticity and are typically done every 3-4 months. While effective, one common side effect is that you may need to continue using catheters to empty your bladder, but many people find this manageable and prefer it to frequent incontinence.
Adjusting your current treatment might also help. Your doctor may consider increasing medication dosages or trying different anticholinergic medications that could work better for you.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial for improving bladder control and reducing urgency when combined with other treatments.
For more severe cases that don't respond to these approaches, there are additional options like bladder stimulators (which should be MRI-compatible), suprapubic catheters, or other surgical interventions that a urologist specializing in MS-related bladder issues can discuss with you.
It's important to work with both your neurologist and a urologist experienced with MS to find the right combination of treatments for your situation.
March 18
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