Overcompensating for certain symptoms - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

kimpossible67 · 04-22-2008, 07:40 AM

I have noticed that because my bladder works in overdrive, I don't drink much. Sometimes I get through the day with one cup of coffee and maybe a sip of something else. Other days I drink maybe a 20 oz glass of sugar free lemonade (and the coffee). I think I just avoid fluids because I know what will happen if I drink freely. Do any of you notice doing something like that? I can use the br at home, drive 3 miles to my parents and have to use theirs upon arrival. I just can't bring myself to drink anymore because of the pain and urgency it causes.

Nenu · 04-22-2008, 08:57 AM

Kim, I'm a coffee lover myself, but it's a diuretic. Which means, it'll make you go more than say, a glass of water will.

I'd suggest cutting the coffee, if at all possible, and focus on water. 1 cup of coffee isn't going to hurt you, but dehydrating yourself by not drinking enough water will.

Good luck hun!

kimpossible67 · 04-22-2008, 09:04 AM

LOL, I always say, I drink water, it's in my coffee! I can't say I can give up coffee as the caffiene headache isn't my idea of a good time but maybe I will try using less grounds and bump up my fluids a little. Thank you

MSJayhawk · 04-22-2008, 09:58 AM

My bladder cycles through overdrive and "granny-low" no matter how much water I drink. About 1-2 times a week I have my caffeine soda (my indulgence), but it does not change my bladder works. If I am going through a bad day, my bladder will be ready to empty not long after I have a drink.

Caffeine can indeed play a role in your overdrive, but it is not necessarily the lone culprit in my opinion.

jlbrow7 · 04-22-2008, 11:07 AM

If you can stand it, I've found that caffeine-free drinks make things easier.