Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in general, but they’re particularly prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS). If you have MS, taking steps to prevent UTIs, as well as seeking a prompt diagnosis and starting treatment, becomes especially important.
The Link Between MS and UTIs
The urinary tract is responsible for filtering and removing waste and excess water from the body. When bacteria get into the urinary tract, it can lead to a UTI.
“The bladder is a muscle, and as with any muscle, it’s controlled by nerves,” explains Ly Hoang Roberts, MD, a urologist at Cleveland Clinic. “If you have any kind of nerve damage — from a stroke, Parkinson’s, a spinal injury, or MS — it can impact the bladder.”
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