Background. Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients often suffer from gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. However, the full extent and prevalence of such symptoms are not clearly established. Thus, we sought to define the prevalence of GI symptoms and syndromes in those with MS. Methods. 218 MS patients completed self-reported demographic and clinical data questionnaires as well as several standardized surveys probing MS severity and GI health. Results. Nearly two thirds (65.6%) of patients endorsed at least one persistent GI symptom. Constipation (36.6%), dysphagia (21.1%), and fecal incontinence (15.1%) were common. Surprisingly, nearly 30% (28.4%) of the patients reported dyspeptic symptoms. Using validated diagnostic algorithms, patients met criteria for functional dysphagia (14.7%), functional dyspepsia (16.5%), functional constipation (31.7%), and IBS (19.3%), among others. Functional dysphagia, functional dyspepsia, and IBS were significantly more common in those with self-identified mood disorders. Conclusions. Constipation, fecal incontinence, and dysphagia are indeed frequent symptoms seen in MS patients. We also noted a ~30% prevalence of dyspepsia in this population. The mechanisms driving this association are not clear and require further study. However, due to this high prevalence, dyspeptic symptoms should be incorporated into the routine assessment of MS patients and, if found, may warrant collaborative referral with a GI specialist. 1. Introduction Historically, the routine evaluation of symptoms in MS patients focused on skeletal muscle impairments that restricted mobility. Within the last two decades, symptoms such as dysphagia, bladder and bowel dysfunction, among others, have been increasingly recognized and incorporated into patient assessments [1–3]. The GI problems felt to be most common in MS patients involve deglutition and defecation and require volitional muscle coordination. This association may link the development of such GI problems to underlying MS disease progression. However, GI symptoms that are not dependent upon skeletal muscle control are common in the general population and may also be present in MS patients. More than two decades ago, Hinds and colleagues described a high prevalence of anorectal dysfunction in a large cohort of MS patients [4]. Since then, the diagnostic and clinical approach to MS care has changed dramatically and now emphasizes the early introduction of disease modifying therapies [5]. However, despite changes in MS care, anorectal dysfunction and swallowing problems continue to be an important problem
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