Digestive Problems
Multiple sclerosis may lead to various digestive problems because healthy gastrointestinal function depends on the CNS’s constant input. The brain-gut-microbiome axis is affected by nerve damage induced by MS, which leads to several digestive ailments. Dyspepsia in MS includes nausea, bloating, upper stomach pain, excessive fullness, heartburn, and frequent burping. In rare instances, MS may lead to nausea and vomiting, impacting their everyday lives.
Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal symptom reported by individuals with MS. This may result from digestive system disturbance caused by a lack of physical activity since MS also causes fatigue and muscle weakness. In addition, MS may result in myelin loss that may disrupt the signals from the intestine to the brain, which maintains a healthy bowel movement. Slow transit of waste through the colon has been associated with MS symptoms such as walking difficulty and fatigue.
In addition, spasticity is a typical symptom of MS. Spasms of the pelvic floor muscles interfere with normal bowel movement, and weak abdominal muscles may make it more difficult to release gas. On the other hand, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by persistent abdominal pain, bloating, and either constipation or diarrhea. This illness is more prevalent, affecting 28 percent of MS patients.
