Bladder problems are very common in MS, affecting an estimated 78% to 90% of people with MS at some point. Interstitial cystitis (IC) is one of the bladder conditions that can occur alongside MS.
IC causes pain and pressure in the bladder and pelvis, and can make you feel the urge to urinate frequently — but only small Show Full Answer
Bladder problems are very common in MS, affecting an estimated 78% to 90% of people with MS at some point. Interstitial cystitis (IC) is one of the bladder conditions that can occur alongside MS.
IC causes pain and pressure in the bladder and pelvis, and can make you feel the urge to urinate frequently — but only small amounts come out. It can also cause pelvic pain and pain during sex. It tends to come and go, with symptom-free periods followed by flare-ups. Some MyMSTeam members have shared their experiences with both MS and IC:
- One MyMSTeam member shared: "I've been experiencing what I thought were urinary tract infections (UTIs). But even though there is blood in my urine sample and clearly some bacteria, the culture doesn't grow in the lab. My neurologist thinks it could be something else."
- Another MyMSTeam member expressed frustration: "Have you dealt with IC or any other 'invaders' that can cause your MS to flare? Like we don't have enough problems with our own bodies attacking us!"
The connection between MS and IC makes sense because MS causes nerve damage that can disrupt signals between the brain and bladder. It's worth noting that some MS medications, like corticosteroids used during flares, can also cause bladder-related side effects such as frequent urination.
If you're experiencing bladder symptoms, it's always a good idea to speak with your doctor or neurologist to identify the cause and find the best treatment approach for you.
September 9
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