Blood in the Urine
It’s not uncommon for people with sciatica to experience bladder issues. More than 31% of people with sciatica also have bladder problems. There are a few different theories about how sciatica can cause bladder problems.
One theory is that the nerve compression associated with sciatica can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to difficulty urinating. Another theory is that the inflammation caused by sciatica can irritate the nearby urinary tract and lead to blood in the urine.
While urinary bleeding can be alarming, it’s important to remember that it’s usually not indicative of a serious underlying condition. In most cases, blood in the urine is caused by bladder or kidney infections, which are common in people with sciatica. Sciatica can also cause bowel issues because the sciatic nerve controls some of the muscles involved in bowel movements. When this nerve is compressed, it can make it difficult to have a regular bowel movement.
As a result, people with sciatica may experience constipation, diarrhea, or both. For individuals experiencing urinary bleeding along with other symptoms like fever or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to see a doctor immediately, as these could be signs of a more serious problem.
