Having bladder issues

[alfolkers]

I was dz 3 years ago-new to this forum,but not MS.  My 1st neuro was a jerk, told me over the phone, told me to start iv steroids before the spinal tap.  Needless to say, it turned out to be MS. It wasnt until after I went to the Mayo Clinic and that dr told me I should not take Copaxon any longer and start Rebif. I had had 3 more attacks after the initial dz, and it was a year after that I went to the Mayo Clinic-thanks to my mothers urging,she got me the appointment, and even lined up my aunt and uncle to drive so hubby could be home with the children.  But it was the best thing that I could of done.  On rebif, I have had one outbreak,2 months after starting, dr said it wasnt a Rebif failure,could still be copaxon getting out and rebif starting.  But I have things under controll now, am finding out the little other side affects that escort MS tho-have had extreme fatigue, now I think my bladder has been affected, I have to go all the time.  At first I thought it was a female issue, talked to the gyno last time I was there, he felt my tummy and told me everything was fine.  Can anyone tell me if they have this issue and what can be done?  Please!
Angie
Ps my 1st neuro told me I could start seeing the other dr in the office-which didnt break my heart at all-he is not an ms specilist but has actually listened to me, and helped me find meds that actually help and doesnt make me take a med im not comfortable taking.

[grannyhotwheels]

MS and bladder problems seem to go hand in hand... I went through a very rough time with this starting with constant bladder infections to total loss of bladder function... I ended up having surgery and now have a urostomy bag... It takes some getting used too and the surgery was the most painful 3 months I've ever been through but I think in the long run it's been worth it...

I was too the point where I really felt like I was going to die from no relief bladder and kidney infections... Twice it went septic and I did almost die... The thing I hate most about PPMS is when a symptom pops up it's just gonna get worse and never go away...

I really pray you can get your bladder problems under control... Definitely see a Urologist and make sure you get one that takes it very seriously...

I'll be praying,
Carol

[LisaJF]

Welcome to the forums alfokers!  You'll love it here -- this place is filled with smart, compassionate and friendly people!

Unfortunately, I can't help you in regard to the Rebif/Copaxone situation, but the bladder situation -- well now that's a different story!

Im the frequency queen!  MS affects the bladder in more ways than one: frequency, hesitancy, urine retention, overflow incontinence and the most wonderful end product is urinary tract infections.  You can also have bladder spasms too which can cause pain.  

I believe you should see a Gyno-urologist (yes those two together) and they can do some urodynamic testing amongst other things to get to the root of the problem.

I think any doctor who makes a patient feel comfortable in departing their services is to be commended.  It says a lot about their character if their reasons are because the patient/doctor relationship was not clicking.  However I'm glad he listened to you and helped you find the meds that helped your symptoms.

Again, welcome!

Lisa