Do others with MS experience extreme lower back pain along with stomach issues?
Yes, many people with MS experience both lower back pain and stomach problems. Around 20 percent of people with MS experience back pain, and up to 70 percent deal with bowel issues like constipation.
A MyMSTeam member shared: "After walking a Show Full Answer
Do others with MS experience extreme lower back pain along with stomach issues?
Yes, many people with MS experience both lower back pain and stomach problems. Around 20 percent of people with MS experience back pain, and up to 70 percent deal with bowel issues like constipation.
A MyMSTeam member shared: "After walking a very short distance, the pain starts in my lower back and spreads all over my body." Another described having "excruciating neuropathic pain in my right hip (buttock) that radiates down my leg" along with constant lower back pain.
For stomach issues, members report similar symptoms to yours. One said, "I have zero appetite, but when I eat, the food just sits in my stomach, causing terrible pain and bloating. I look pregnant at times!" Another described experiencing "constant nausea despite taking medication for nausea."
The combination you're experiencing—severe back pain with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, and constipation—is reported by others with MS. These symptoms can be directly related to MS or caused by how MS affects your body's systems. What might be causing these symptoms?
MS can disrupt nerve signals between your brain and digestive system, leading to a condition called neurogenic bowel dysfunction. This affects between 39 and 73 percent of people with MS.
Your stomach symptoms could also be related to gastroparesis, where the stomach doesn't empty properly. This causes:
- Early fullness and bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
Studies show up to 45 percent of people with MS experience swallowing and digestive difficulties. About 30 percent experience indigestion, and as many as 10 percent deal with nausea.
Back pain in MS can stem from nerve damage, muscle spasms, or changes in how you move due to other MS symptoms. It's important to note that back pain can have many causes, so a thorough evaluation is essential. What should you discuss with your new neurologist?
It's great that you're seeing a specialist tomorrow. Here's what to bring up:
- Describe your symptoms in detail: where you feel pain, what it feels like, and when it occurs
- Mention how the symptoms affect your daily life (like leaving work early)
- Ask about your specific MS type and what that means for you
- Discuss treatment options for both MS and your symptoms
- Request a full evaluation to determine if your back and stomach issues are directly MS-related or have other causes
Keeping a brief symptom diary can help you track patterns and communicate more effectively with your healthcare provider. Clear communication will help identify the underlying causes and guide effective treatment.
You're taking the right step by seeking a specialist who can provide comprehensive care and answers. Many members find relief once they understand their symptoms and work with their care team on targeted treatments.
March 24
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