Digestive issues are really common with MS — up to 70% of people living with MS experience them. They can range from constipation and diarrhea to bowel incontinence, and they can seriously affect daily life. As one MyMSTeam member put it, their days feel like they "revolve around the bathroom."
MS can disrupt the nerve Show Full Answer
Digestive issues are really common with MS — up to 70% of people living with MS experience them. They can range from constipation and diarrhea to bowel incontinence, and they can seriously affect daily life. As one MyMSTeam member put it, their days feel like they "revolve around the bathroom."
MS can disrupt the nerve signals between the brain and the bowels, leading to something called neurogenic bowel dysfunction. It can also make it harder for the pelvic floor muscles to relax, and may block the natural reflex that moves food through the digestive tract. Here's a breakdown of the most common digestive issues in MS:
- Constipation – The most common issue. Stool moves too slowly, becomes hard and dry, and is difficult to pass.
- Diarrhea – The bowel becomes overactive, moving contents too quickly.
- Bowel incontinence – Loss of voluntary bowel control, often linked to diarrhea or long-term constipation.
Some people alternate between constipation and incontinence, which can be especially frustrating. Several factors beyond MS itself can make digestive issues worse, including:
- MS medications (especially opioid pain relievers)
- Low fiber diet
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Limited physical activity
- Fatigue and mobility issues slowing digestion
- Muscle spasticity in the pelvic floor The good news is there are ways to manage these symptoms. Some helpful strategies include:
- Increasing fiber and fluid intake
- Gentle physical activity when possible
- Pelvic floor exercises or physical therapy
- Over-the-counter options like bulk-forming agents (e.g., psyllium) or loperamide for diarrhea
- Talking to your doctor about adjusting any medications that may be contributing
It's really worth bringing these symptoms up with your healthcare provider — they can help tailor a plan that works alongside your current MS treatment.
July 30
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