Incontinence and Multiple Sclerosis

by Jane Hankenhof Curry, BS Gerontologist

Like most people, you probably don't spend much time during the day thinking about the proper functioning of your bladder. In a well functioning urinary system urine is collected, stored and released in a controlled process and without worry. In a system that is dysfunctional individuals may experience incontinence or the loss of bladder control. For the approximately 25 million Americans experiencing incontinence a great deal of time can be spent thinking about bladder control issues. Concerns about the location of the closest bathroom, making it to the bathroom on time, accidents, and embarrassing odor are very real to those with dysfunctional bladders. All of these concerns can lead to fear and anxiety, unnecessary isolation, loss of freedom and negatively impact their quality of life.

Incontinence is a medical condition. There are many types and causes for the loss of bladder control.

Multiple Sclerosis, a disease of the central nervous system that impairs the coordination and strength of muscles, can also impact bladder and bowel control. Bladder dysfunction is estimated to affect approximately 80% of those diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Just as Multiple Sclerosis symptoms vary and differ in severity from person to person so too can the symptoms, types, and levels of incontinence. An evaluation can determine the cause of bladder dysfunction and early treatment can lead to prevention of further complications such as urinary tract infections or kidney damage.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society "bladder dysfunction develops because MS blocks or delays transmission of nerve signals in areas of the central nervous system that control the bladder and urinary sphincter". Those with Multiple Sclerosis may experience the need to urinate frequently or urgently, urination hesitancy, frequent need to urinate at night, or be incontinent. Medication side effects, a "spastic" bladder that doesn't hold a normal amount of urine, or a bladder that improperly empties can all lead to bladder control issues. Those living with MS may experience dysfunction in urine collection, storage or the combination of both often leading to urinary tract infections or incontinence.

If you have MS or care for someone with the disease it is important to know that there are successful incontinence treatments and management methods available. Medications, diet modifications, and intermittent catheterization are treatment methods that may preserve normal functioning, relieve symptoms, or prevent complications. The advancements in treatment and management provide many benefits to both those living with incontinence and their caregivers.

Disposable products offer effective, affordable, and convenient solutions for light, moderate, and heavy levels of incontinence. Today's superabsorbent technology eliminates the worry of odor, leakage, and skin breakdown. High performance products comprised of superabsorbent polymers ensure that urine is quickly absorbed into the product's core thus keeping the skin dry. Polymers also neutralize urine's harmful bacteria that cause odor and can lead to urinary tract infections or skin breakdown. High performance products provide the security of knowing that they will hold large amounts of urine without leakage and prevent embarrassing accidents.

High performance products are available in a variety of styles to best meet each individual's bladder control needs. The unique needs of individuals with chronic diseases, such as MS, are taken into consideration when developing product lines. Manufacturers of high performance products want to ensure that individuals can continue to lead an active life. Today's advanced technology provides thinner and more comfortable styles while still ensuring that a large amount of urine is absorbed and neutralized. Pads, pull-ons, liners, and briefs are available in a variety of absorbency capacities. Manufacturers and distributors of high performance products may also provide you with confidential consultations and educational tools to help you determine which products would best meet your individualized needs.

There are many valuable resources available to those with incontinence and Multiple Sclerosis. A support group, incontinence specialist, web site, or book may provide the additional information. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society at 1-800-344-4867, your local MS Society chapter, or www.nationalmssociety.org offers valuable brochures on MS and incontinence. Especially helpful is the brochure titled "Urinary Dysfunction and MS: A Guide for People with Multiple Sclerosis" which is based on "A Clinical Practice Guideline for Professionals, developed by the Multiple Sclerosis Council for Clinical Practice Guidelines".

Another valuable resource is The National Association for Continence (NAFC). They are the leading source for public education and advocacy about the causes, prevention, treatment and management alternatives for incontinence. NAFC offers a web site, resource guide, and materials that are most helpful. They also offer a Continence Resource Center to find a health care provider by zip code and Quality Care, a newsletter for people with diseases (such as MS) and incontinence. The web site for NAFC is www.NAFC.org and they can be reached by phone at 1-800-344-4867.

Jane Hankenhof Curry is the Education and Market Development Coordinator for Principle Business Enterprises of Dunbridge, Ohio. PBE is the manufacturer of Tranquility, a full line of high performance incontinence products. Additional information can be found on the web at www.tranquilityproducts.com.                   © 2010 Principle Business Enterprises, Inc.

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