Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence is a condition that many people experience, where they might feel a sudden urge to use the bathroom or have difficulty controlling gas or bowel movements. It can be challenging to deal with, but understanding it is an important first step toward finding ways to manage it.

What is Fecal Incontinence?

Fecal incontinence, also known as accidental bowel leakage, is the inability to control bowel movements. It can range from an occasional leakage to complete loss of bowel control.

Although this condition is common, particularly among older adults and women who have given birth, many people are embarrassed to discuss it. It's important to know that you are not alone and that effective treatments are available. With the right approach, fecal incontinence can often be treated or significantly improved.

Causes and Risk Factors

Fecal incontinence is often caused by a combination of factors affecting the muscles and nerves around the rectum and anus.

Some common causes include:

Injury to the rings of muscle at the end of the rectum (anal sphincter) may make it difficult to hold stool back properly.

Injury to the nerves that sense stool in the rectum or those that control the anal sphincter can lead to incontinence.

A medical condition where the rectum, the final section of the large intestine, slips or protrudes through the anus, often causing discomfort and visible bulging.

Symptoms of Fecal Incontinence

The primary symptom is the inability to control the passage of gas or stool, though the experience varies from person to person.

Common signs include:

  • Urge Incontinence: A sudden, intense need to defecate that you cannot stop before reaching a toilet.
  • Passive Incontinence: Leaking stool without being aware of the need to pass it.
  • Soiling: Minor leakage of stool into undergarments, often following a bowel movement.
  • Gas Incontinence: Inability to control the passing of gas.
  • Skin Irritation: Soreness, itching, or pain around the anus due to frequent contact with stool.

Diagnosing Fecal Incontinence

Because there are many potential causes for fecal incontinence, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the best treatment.

Diagnostic procedures typically include:

This test measures the tightness of the anal sphincter and the sensitivity of the rectum.

An ultrasound probe is used to create images of the sphincter muscles to check for defects or tears.

Magnetic resonance imaging can provide detailed pictures of the sphincter muscles to identify damage.

Tiny needles are inserted into the muscles around the anus to test for nerve damage.

Treatment and Management of Fecal Incontinence

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the incontinence.

Some treatment strategies include:

Adjusting what you eat can help manage stool consistency. Increasing fiber and water can help bulk up stool, while avoiding foods that cause diarrhea (like caffeine, dairy, or spicy foods) can reduce urgency.

Anti-diarrheal drugs can help slow down the bowel. Laxatives may be used if chronic constipation is the cause.

Establishing a routine by attempting to have a bowel movement at specific times of the day helps train the body.

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can improve anal sphincter control.

A therapist uses simple equipment to help you learn how to strengthen your pelvic muscles and sense when stool is ready to be released.

Find Help for Fecal Incontinence in Westlake or Brooklyn, OH

Living with fecal incontinence can seem isolating, but effective solutions are available. The board certified gastroenterologists at North Shore Gastroenterology offer compassionate, discreet care to help you manage this condition with dignity.

Contact us today at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment online to schedule a visit.