MS and UTI

[SamIrish]

Is there a correlation between MS and UTIs, specifically a UTI that appears to come on suddenly

[MrsAristotle]

Even though i am still going through the diagnostic stage, (my GP believes I have MS), the worse thing for me is the UTI.  I have had 5 since january, and constantly have problems with my water works.

I had to write down how often I went to the toilet in 24 hour period and it was 25 times when I was having a bad day. It exhausts me.

To help me when I go to toilet I bend forward and rock back and forth to try and eliminate all the urine.

I was told by my urologist to take a high dose cranberry tablet everyday which i have now for 2 years and it does seem to help keep the bladder clean, as when i went away for a few days i forgot to take them and withing the next fortnight i had burning and UTI again.

Its a nightmare. I may now have to use a catheter if the situation gets any worse.

[dr_simran]

Hello Dear,
A well-known hazard for people with MS are urinary tract infections (UTI’s) as they can trigger relapses. Symptoms to look out for are burning and stinging during urination (cystitis) and the persistent urge to go. Sometimes people with MS however don’t pick up on these symptoms as they can’t feel the burning sensation and frequently need to go anyway.
Retention of urine is a common problem for people with MS and this is thought one reason why they  are at higher risk of developing UTI’s
Refer http://www.msrc.co.uk/index.cfm?fuseaction=show&pageid=806
Best