Bowel symptoms can occur in people with MS with constipation being the most common. Constipation is important to manage because it can increase other symptoms including:
The psychosocial implications for bowel dysfunction are:
- Discomfort
- Embarrassment
- Society isolation
- Fear of loss of control
- Anxiety about leaving the house, being around other people
Diarrhea is not usually associated with MS. Other causes need to be considered.
Treatment
- Disimpaction and relief of constipation
- Added fiber