Is diarrhea common in MS?
Diarrhea is less common than constipation in people with MS, but it can still occur. Constipation is actually the most common bowel problem for people living with MS.
When diarrhea does happen, it may be caused by MS making the bowel overactive, which speeds up how quickly contents move through Show Full Answer
Is diarrhea common in MS?
Diarrhea is less common than constipation in people with MS, but it can still occur. Constipation is actually the most common bowel problem for people living with MS.
When diarrhea does happen, it may be caused by MS making the bowel overactive, which speeds up how quickly contents move through your digestive system. However, diarrhea isn't always directly caused by MS itself.
Other factors can trigger diarrhea, including:
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Stomach viruses
- Changes in activity levels
- Certain medications
Some people with MS experience both constipation and diarrhea, or may alternate between the two. One MyMSTeam member shared that they're usually constipated from pain medication, but during an attack, they "don't have full control."
If you're experiencing chronic diarrhea, it's important to talk with your doctor. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include bulk-forming products, antidiarrheal medications, or other management strategies.
March 24