VERY SERIOUS QUESTION

[diguilio]

HI....I HAVE HAD MS FOR ABOUT 11 YEARS.....I CAN'T CONTROL WHEN I HAVE TO PEE....I CAN'T WALK THAT WELL AND WHEN I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING I CAN'T GET TO THE BATHROOM QUICK ENOUGH....SO WHAT SUGGESTING DOES ANYONE HAVE?

[Thinkimjob]

I'm afraid those incontinence underpants might be your best bet.
There are drugs, too.

[jessiesmom]

Bladder Problems

There are all sorts of bladder problems that are common to those with MS including overactive bladder, failure to empty, etc. Many of these can be helped. Have you consulted a urologist? Have you ever had any kind of urodynamic testing? While an MS specialist/neurologist may have some experience with these issues, it would not be their specialty. That is why I suggested going to a urologist. Good luck.

[Tawanda]

Vesicare may be your solution, but dry mouth will be something you will have to address...

[tellnhelen]

I agree with Jessiesmom for a long term solution...in the short run Depends or something like that will help. Good luck

[Kimba22]

Learning how to self-cath would also benefit you. That way you can completely empty your bladder when you do go, hopefully extending the time before you need to go again. (It also cuts down on UTIs). It also gives you some control over WHEN you go, for example, before you need to go somewhere.

I wasn't thrilled at the thought of self-cathing, but after I finally figured out how to do it, it's really no big deal. It has helped me get some control over this issue.

It is also helpful for me to watch the time during the day. This helps me to plan my bathroom trip rather than not make it in time. My urologist suggested every 4 hours, but I do better planning every 3 hours. It also helps me to remember an hour after I drink something it will be in my bladder.

You should try to avoid caffeine, as it causes bladder spasms. I strongly suggest seeing a urologist (one who specializes in a neurogenic bladder). I know having another doctor to see isn't fun, but he/she can help you get this better under control. They can also prescribe higher doses of a medication if they deem it appropriate.

It would have helped me to have sought out a urologist much, much sooner than I finally did.

Best wishes,

[Thinkimjob]

I've found it's much worse if I'm carrying anything at the time I need to "go". I get a bit panicky, not wanting to wet myself, weighing up 'drop whatever it is", (really heavy stuff, like an empty glass ) get to the toilet, get my pants down and avoid the unstoppable deluge if I don't make it in time.

The funny, (not, obviously), thing is the link between the thought of probably should go and absolutely must go, right now, is so short.

Which would be okay if I could run, but a plucky rapid stagger is as good as it gets. Thank you once again, MS.

I would love an en suite. Those ten extra metres may as well be a hundred.

[Fed Up]

ThinkImJob, described my problems. Right now, I am going through the steps (or ducks), first my gyn and now..a I don't know. Back for a referral. My issue goes from one extreme to the other.

The really bad part is, I toss whatever is in my hands. I am so totally focused on 'holding' and trying to get to the restroom, in time.

My Keys are the biggest problem---finding them after a derby flounder for a turtle trot to the pot

Helpful and interesting thread, @OP, thank YOU! fed

[Toomnyhats]

I agree with others, this issue needs to be addressed by a urologist.

I have similar issues. I saw the doc recommended by my neuro. Dx: muscle spasms, probably neurogenic bladder. Doc ordered test but with my bad insurance I would have to pay 100% which was several hundred $$, out of my budget.

Did some research & learned that magnesium is a natural muscle relaxer. The addition of 400 mg magnesium 2X/day has been a life saver for me. Gave me back the control I lost many years ago.

Check w/your pharmacist that magnesium won't interact with any rx you may be on, but I recommend trying it while you wait for the urologist appt. For me, I could tell a difference in a matter of hours.

[Jazzberry]

all suggestions are good and I suggest you investigate them. Medication can make a huge difference! But if your biggest issue is waking up & needing to go ASAP, but legs not cooperating, why not try putting a simple bedside commode next to the bed.

[thelegendlc]

Urinal

I would recommend that you purchase a URSEC brand urinal. They make a model for either men or women. The product is spill proof which is essential. I have used the male version for a number of years. I have it on a table near my bed that I can use during the night and the first thing in the morning. I am unable to walk at all and I can assure you this product is excellent. With a little practice, you can use the device while laying flat on your back. I am home alone during the day and I use it when seated in my power lift La-Z-Boy or my power wheelchair.

They are available through Amazon and are priced at about $50. On the Amazon website just search: URSEC urinal.

I also take Detrol XL and that has certainly helped settle down my bladder; however, it doesn't solve the issue of lack of mobility. This product definitely does!

[AnneLouise]

Recently, a device has been advertised on tv called "GoPilot".
Basically, it is like a portable potty for long drives. My hubby suggested having this next to the bed.

[nursefairy]

I had the same issue and it got worse and worse. Finally I went to a Urologist and he put me on Detrol. That works great for me and my issue is resolved.