Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence, a condition that can deeply affect one’s quality of life, is more common than many realize.
What is fecal incontinence?
Fecal incontinence, also known as bowel incontinence, is the inability to control bowel movements, causing unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum. This condition can vary in severity, from occasional leakage when passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control. Understanding what fecal incontinence is marks the first step towards finding effective management and treatment solutions.
Patients with fecal incontinence have trouble controlling their bowel movements, including gas/flatus. This condition can impact people of all ages but increases with age. The prevalence of fecal incontinence is similar amongst men and women. However, women can be affected at an earlier age due to obstetric trauma.
A variety of specialists can diagnose and treat fecal incontinence. Gastroenterology and colorectal surgery are two specialties that can treat both men and women. Urogynecologists are a specialists devoted to treating pelvic floor disorders in women, including fecal incontinence that relates to a weakened or damaged pelvic floor.
Symptoms of fecal incontinence
Recognizing the symptoms of fecal incontinence is key to seeking appropriate care. Common fecal incontinence symptoms include:
- Involuntary leakage of stool or mucus
- The urge to defecate but not making it to the toilet in time
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea, which can lead to accidents
If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a health care professional for a proper diagnosis and to explore potential treatments.
Causes of fecal incontinence
The causes of fecal incontinence are varied and can involve factors such as muscle or nerve damage, especially those related to aging or childbirth. Conditions like diarrhea, constipation and certain diseases such as diabetes can also contribute to the development of fecal incontinence.
Types of fecal incontinence
There are several types of fecal incontinence, including:
- Urge incontinence: An inability to hold stool long enough to reach a toilet
- Passive incontinence: Unexpected leakage without any urge to go to the toilet
Understanding the type of fecal incontinence is crucial for determining the most effective treatment options.
Who is at risk for fecal incontinence
Risk factors for fecal incontinence include:
- Aging, due to reduced muscle tone
- Women, particularly those who have experienced childbirth injuries
- Individuals with chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Those with underlying neurological or physical conditions affecting bowel control
Fecal incontinence treatment options
Treatment for fecal incontinence aims to improve the quality of life and may involve:
- Dietary changes: To manage constipation or diarrhea
- Medications: To regulate bowel movements
- Physical therapy: Including pelvic floor exercises to strengthen muscles
- Surgery: For severe cases where other treatments have not been effective
Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances, with a focus on improving symptoms and managing the condition effectively.
Diagnosis and testing for fecal incontinence
Diagnosing fecal incontinence typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination and possibly additional tests such as:
- Defecography
- Anal manometry
- Transanal ultrasound
- MRI
Treatment options depend on the type of incontinence, the cause and severity. In some cases, treatment may simply include lifestyle and diet changes. For others, physical therapy to strengthen and retrain the pelvic floor and sphincter muscles may be helpful. Fecal incontinence can be a challenging and sensitive condition, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. With the right information and support, along with comprehensive treatment plans, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and lead fulfilling lives.