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UTIs aren't a direct symptom of MS, but they are a very common complication. Between 78–90% of people with MS experience bladder dysfunction at some point, and this dysfunction creates the perfect conditions for UTIs to develop.

Here's why UTIs happen so frequently with MS:

- MS damages the myelin sheath on nerves Show Full Answer

UTIs aren't a direct symptom of MS, but they are a very common complication. Between 78–90% of people with MS experience bladder dysfunction at some point, and this dysfunction creates the perfect conditions for UTIs to develop.

Here's why UTIs happen so frequently with MS:

- MS damages the myelin sheath on nerves, disrupting signals between the brain and bladder
- This can cause the bladder to not empty fully during urination
- Urine that sits in the bladder too long can grow bacteria, leading to infection
- Use of catheters can also increase the risk What makes UTIs especially tricky with MS is that they can trigger what's called a "pseudo-exacerbation" — where old MS symptoms suddenly feel worse or new ones appear. Some people don't even realize they have a UTI; they just notice their neurological symptoms flaring up.

It's really important to treat UTIs quickly to avoid them making other MS symptoms worse, like weakness and spasticity. If something feels off, it's worth checking in with your doctor.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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