Fecal incontinence is the loss of control over the bowels. Some people may have uncontrolled release of just gas and liquid stool. Others have no control over the release of solid waste. Many people with this condition also have trouble controlling the release of urine.
This condition can lead to issues such as depression or isolation. If you think you have this condition, contact your doctor promptly.
Women are more likely to suffer from this than men. Many cases are a result of an injury to the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support pelvic organs. Injury can happen through pregnancy or delivery . Other causes include:
These factors increase your chance of fecal incontinence. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to fecal incontinence. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor may send you to a specialist such as a:
Tests may include the following:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Options include the following:
Your doctor may suggest changes to your diet. You may be referred to a nutritionist for diet ideas. Examples of diet changes include:
You may be asked to keep track of your diet and incontinence episodes. This will help identify patterns that can be changed.
Your doctor may suggest using biofeedback . This method can retrain your body’s responses. A bowel movement schedule can also train your bowels.
Surgical procedures may be used to treat this condition such as:
To help reduce your chance of getting fecal incontinence, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
http://www.iffgd.org
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Digestive Health Foundation
http://www.cdhf.ca/index.html
Canadian Society of Intestinal Research
http://www.badgut.com/
References:
Fecal incontinence. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/fecalincontinence/index.htm . Accessed November 1, 2008.
Gearhart SL. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine . 17th edition. United States: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008:Chapter 291, Diverticular Disease and Common Anorectal Disorders.
Landefeld CS, Bowers BJ, Feld AD et al. National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science Conference Statement: Prevention of Fecal and Urinary Incontinence in Adults. Ann Intern Med . 2008;148:449-458.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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