Travelling with MS

[riverlady5783]

I've been living with MS for 30 years and we just returned from a visit to our son in Whitehorse.

My MS has been challenging over the past year. The last MRI said no changes, but that is not my experience! My walking is worse and my bladder control (or lack of it) is way worse. We had a short layover between planes and walking from one gate to another was difficult. I had my cane in one hand and held on to my husband on the other side. Then we finally arrived at my sons house, I tripped over the step and went "splat". I couldn't get up and my son had to haul me up. Luckily my son has a washer and dryer because I lost bladder control a few times. I think he wondered why I kept doing laundry!

My MS was in remission for 15 years (thank you Copaxone) but in March my husband had a heart attack. He was air ambulanced to a larger center and had stents put on. He is home and fine now Soon after, I had a relapse affecting my legs and bladder. I had IV steroids, but am left with mobility and bladder issues.

Please - any suggestions on how to deal with these issues? Poise pads? Medication? I will get over being so damn stubborn and ask for help with mobility if we ever fly somewhere again!

I hate the constant changes we had to deal with - this miserable MonSter

Thanks,
Llsa

[pennstater]

Hi riverlady.

Sounds like a rough year. Glad your husband is doing well. Will keep hoping you see some additional recovery.

There is anothet forum for secretive symptoms that may give more insight for bladder issue.

I would recommend seeing an urologist, let them do some testing to determine cause. I went on vesicare for it. I have only had to up the dosage once, and it does the job. Occasionally I will have periodic issues, usually when sick or overtired. I use pads during these periods for extra protection. Of course, it adds one more specialist to the annual check up list.

As for travel, definitely let the airline help. Save your energy for what is really important.

[Jules A]

Hi Lisa,
I would bet the airport arrangements for wheelchair escort are a nice perk that you would definitely benefit from next time. Pride can be a great motivator but can also cause unnecessary strife.

I use oxybutin prior to plane trips which helps with the urgency but I'm not sure if that is your issue. Definitely ask your neuro about it.

Wonderful to hear about someone doing well for so many years with MS but I'm sorry things changed but appreciate your sense of humor and courage to keep pushing forward.

[Mamabug]

I would echo using Poise or bladder pads. I've also used oxybutrin, but have actually found OTC magnesium supplements to be more effective. I get some that also has calcium because magnesium and calcium should be kept in balance.