Fecal Incontinence
STRUGGLING WITH STOOL (FECAL) INCONTINENCE?
YOU’RE NOT ALONE – HELP IS AVAILABLE.
What is Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, causing accidental leakage. It can affect people of all ages.
Nearly 18 million U.S. adults have this condition, though many do not report it due to embarrassment.
This condition can also lead to significant limitations in your personal and social life, impacting daily actives and emotional well being.
Common Causes
- Constipation: Causes hard stools that weaken the rectum allowing watery stool to leak.
- Diarrhea: Loose stools are harder to hold, leading to accidents.
- Muscle/Nerve Damage: Often caused by childbirth, surgery, or chronic straining.
- Other factors: Hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, or diseases like Diabetes.
Symptoms
- Accidental leakage of stools
- Sudden urgency to have a bowel movement
- Difficulty controlling gas.
- Clothing soiling.
Treatment Options
- Dietary Adjustments: Increasing fiber to bulk stools or managing trigger foods (caffeine, dairy).
- Exercise: Pelvis floor exercises (Kegals) to strengthen muscles
- Bowel Training: Developing a routine for bowel movements
- Medications: Anti-diarrheal medications or stool softeners.
- Surgical Interventions: InterStim therapy/Sacral nerve manipulation (91% success rate)