MS can harm the neurological pathways that control how the bowel functions. If these nerves are damaged, bowel dysfunctions can occur. There are many ways neurogenic bowel dysfunction may be experienced, though generally speaking, it can either lead to problems maintaining control over the bowels and/or it can lead to problems with constipation and evacuation of the bowels.
It is important to note that the severity of bowel symptoms can fluctuate over time. It is also possible for a person to experience symptoms of constipation and stool leakage independently or together.2
This is when a person experiences involuntary bowel emptying and/or stool leakage.1 If you live with this problem, it may occur without being aware of it (passive incontinence), or it can be accompanied by feelings of needing to go to the bathroom (urge incontinence).2
This is where stool remains in the large intestine for longer than usual and is passed less frequently. It is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week and is considered ‘chronic’ if it persists for longer than three months.3,4 If you pass hard, dry, or large stools, strain, and/or struggle to completely pass your stool, this may indicate constipation.5
If you are experiencing constipation,5 struggle to control your bowel, or frequently pass either liquid or hard stool,2 your MS may be affecting your bowel. There is no shame in speaking up if this is the case. Your MS nurse or primary care doctor can be your first point of contact for getting help. Having this conversation can be the first step towards a better quality of life.
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