Multiple Sclerosis Health Center

Multiple Sclerosis and Bowel Problems

How Do I Control Diarrhea if I Have Multiple Sclerosis?

• Drink 8 or more cups of liquids per day. Add 1 to 2 cups of liquids to the daily 8 cups for every episode of loose, watery stool you have to replace losses. Try water, lemonade or fruit-flavored drinks, fruit or vegetable juice, broth, milk, or cream soup.
• Talk with your doctor or dietitian about increasing or decreasing the amount of fiber you eat.
• Eat soft foods that contain large amounts of liquid, such as sherbet, yogurt, and pudding.
• Ask your doctor whether adjusting your medications might help relieve the diarrhea, but do not change your medications without first talking to your doctor.
• Don't take over-the-counter (nonprescription) drugs for diarrhea without talking to your doctor.