Study Explores Link Between MS and Bowel Dysfunction | MyMSTeam

Connect with others who understand.

sign up Log in
Resources
About MyMSTeam
Powered By
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
NEWS

Study Explores Link Between MS and Bowel Dysfunction

Medically reviewed by Evelyn O. Berman, M.D.
Written by Torrey Kim
Posted on September 22, 2021

  • The authors of a recent study reviewed the Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction scores of 1,100 participants across nine multiple sclerosis (MS) centers in Italy.
  • Researchers found a “relatively high prevalence” of moderate to severe bowel dysfunction among the study participants.
  • Researchers recommend health care providers proactively screen people with MS for symptoms of neurogenic bowel dysfunction.

Results from a new multicenter study may be helpful in quantifying just how prevalent bowel issues are in people with multiple sclerosis. A report published on Aug. 4 in the Journal of Neurology focused on whether bowel symptoms were common in people with MS, and whether any demographic variables were linked to symptom severity. The multicenter study, which included people with MS who were 18 years of age or older, was conducted in Italy.

The authors analyzed responses from 1,100 people with MS over the course of one month at nine MS centers in Italy. They used the 10-question Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction (NBD) score, which asked participants to evaluate their NBD symptoms, including those related to both incontinence and constipation.

The researchers found that 14 percent of participants had moderate to severe bowel dysfunction. Bowel dysfunction was more likely among people with more severe levels of disability, progressive phenotypes, older age, and longer disease duration. The study authors said the severity of participants’ bowel dysfunction was predicted by such factors as bladder symptoms, difficulty walking, and female sex.

The authors noted that the rate of bowel dysfunction in participants was lower in this study as compared to other studies. However, the researchers added that this current analysis was performed on people who were classified as having a relatively low level of disability.

The study authors suggested that health care providers should proactively screen people with MS for symptoms of NBD so these symptoms can be addressed before they reach moderate to severe levels of bowel dysfunction.

Posted on September 22, 2021
All updates must be accompanied by text or a picture.

Become a Subscriber

Get the latest news about multiple sclerosis sent to your inbox.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Evelyn O. Berman, M.D. is a neurology and pediatric specialist and treats disorders of the brain in children. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Learn more about her here
Torrey Kim is a freelance writer with MyHealthTeam. Learn more about her here

Recent Articles

Meet Dani, Todd, and LaTasha. Real stories from real members.

MyMSTeam Stories: Real Stories From Real Members

Meet Dani, Todd, and LaTasha. Real stories from real members.
Dani works as the music program coordinator at a youth center. Watch this video to see how she fi...

Music and Community: How I Fight MS

Dani works as the music program coordinator at a youth center. Watch this video to see how she fi...
In this video, Dani explains that one of the most important lessons she’s learned since being dia...

How I Learned To Listen to My Body With MS

In this video, Dani explains that one of the most important lessons she’s learned since being dia...
Dani had just started a new job when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.“I had to advocate...

My Advocacy Tips: Taking Care of Future Me With MS

Dani had just started a new job when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.“I had to advocate...
Your race or ethnicity can influence many aspects of your life, including how you’re affected by ...

MS Prevalence by Race and Ethnicity: In the Black Community and More

Your race or ethnicity can influence many aspects of your life, including how you’re affected by ...
Diphenhydramine — sold under many brand names including Benadryl — is a type of antihistamine tha...

Why Is Benadryl Given With Some MS Treatments?

Diphenhydramine — sold under many brand names including Benadryl — is a type of antihistamine tha...
MS News
MS News

Thank you for subscribing!

Become a member to get even more:

sign up for free

close