Bladder, Kidney Problem with MS

  I have been newly diagnosed with possible MS.  I know that bladder, kidney problems are common with this disease.  Mine is a little different than anything I've read or heard about so far and would like to see if you've heard/know anything about one like it.
  I am not having problems with incontinence or the usual.  My urine output seems to be very low than from what it was say a year ago.  I easily hold up to 10 lbs. of water.  The edema is very bad especially in my legs where it has become pitting.  My hands are also swollen.  The left side of my face (the affected side) is also showing edema but I realize that that is a symptom of the disease.
  I have had a complete cardiac workup, pulmonary workup, etc.  All is good.
  My last complete bloodwork was three months ago.  All except sed rate within normal range.  I don't have UTI's, no lower back pain, etc.
  The only relief I get is when taking 120 mg. of lasix (yes - 120) and laying flat on my back.  I am following up with my doctor later this week, but was very curious as to whether or not there are any other reports like this and what your professional opinion might be.
Dear Lynn,
Thank you for your question. It is true that bladder problems are common in MS. They usually consist in urinary frequency, urgency, incontinence, and/or difficulty emptying the bladder, and urinary infections. These bladder problems usually do not produce edema, unless they are neglected and result in a dysfunction of the kidneys.
In MS patients, edema is often seen in paralyzed limbs, especially in the legs, because of circulatory problems resulting from the absence of muscle contractions. If you have weakness in the limbs affected by edema, this could be a possible explanation. However, it is not very common to see a generalized edema in MS, and it is certainly worth looking for any other cause, which could possibly be treated. You mention that your cardiac and pulmonary functions have been checked. Kidney diseases, or some hormonal problems, can also produce edema. You might want to discuss with your doctor if all causes of edema have been investigated, before attributing it to MS, especially if you have not been diagnosed with definite MS at this point.
I hope this helped. Remember that this information is disclosed only for the purpose of general medical education.