Bowel Incontinence
Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
What is Bowel Incontinence?
Bowel incontinence, also known as fescal incontinence, is the inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool. It can be a distressing condition that affects daily activities and quality of life.
Causes of Bowel Incontinence
Bowel incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Muscle or Nerve Damage: Damage to the anal sphincter muscles or nerves from childbirth, surgery, or trauma.
Chronic Diarrhoea or Constipation: Frequent bowel movements or straining can weaken the anal muscles.
Neurological Conditions: Conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease can affect bowel control.
Aging: Muscle tone and nerve function can decline with age, affecting bowel control.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can contribute to incontinence.
Bowel Incontinence Symptoms
Symptoms can vary but often include:
Involuntary Leakage: Uncontrolled passing of stool or gas.
Urgency: A sudden, strong need to have a bowel movement.
Difficulty Controlling Bowel Movements: Trouble holding stool until reaching the bathroom.
Frequent or Persistent Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools that are hard to control.
Bowel Incontinence Treatment
Treatment options include dietary changes, pelvic floor exercises, medications, and, in some cases, surgery. Doctors may use tests like anorectal manometry, colonoscopy, or imaging to determine the cause of incontinence.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of bowel incontinence, or if it significantly impacts your daily life, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
If bowel incontinence is affecting your life, our specialists can help. Book an appointment to find the best treatment plan for you. Your initial consultation is bulk-billed and does not require a referral.
