Overview
Fecal incontinence, sometimes referred to as bowel incontinence, is the inability to control bowel movements. Patients with this condition lose voluntary control of their urine and bowel movements, which can make everyday life quite difficult. Bowel experience varies from individual to individual – with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. While some patients struggle with occasional bladder leaks, others lose complete control. Understanding patients’ unique conditions is essential in the treatment of fecal incontinence.
Causes of Fecal Incontinence
There are a few reasons for the development of fecal incontinence. Common causes include:
- Diarrhea: Recurring diarrhea can cause the muscles in the rectum and anus to weaken, eventually leading to the development of fecal incontinence.
- Constipation: Chronic constipation can weaken the rectal and anal muscles, and in certain cases, cause nerve damage.
- Nerve Damage: Damage to the nerves that sense stool in the rectum may lead to fecal incontinence.
- Age: The risk of fecal incontinence increases with age and is most common in individuals 65+.
Fecal Incontinence Treatment Options
Patients who suspect they have fecal incontinence and those who have been diagnosed should work with their doctor to create a treatment plan. Oftentimes, this starts with conservative therapies including some medications and rectal Botox injections. If patients continue to experience symptoms after exploring two or more conservative approaches, they may consider sacral nerve stimulation (SNS).
Sacral nerve stimulator treatment is an advanced therapy recommended to patients who experience bladder and bowel incontinence. This treatment improves communication between the brain and the bladder/bowels by stimulating the sacral nerves with tiny electrical impulses.
Fecal Incontinence Symptoms
Various symptoms may indicate that a patient has fecal incontinence. This includes:
- Frequent urination
- Loose or watery stool
- Bloating and gas
- Inability to control bowel movements
Fecal Incontinence FAQs
Is fecal incontinence avoidable?
Although fecal incontinence is not preventable, there are ways to reduce the risk. Exercise, bowel training, and diet are a few ways to prevent constipation which can in turn reduce the risk of developing fecal incontinence
How effective is sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of fecal incontinence?
89% of patients can find relief from fecal incontinence through the use of sacral nerve stimulation.
BEST Health System
BEST Health System partners with premier care providers to improve patient access to quality urology care. If you believe you have fecal incontinence, or if you have recently been diagnosed, relief may be right around the corner. Contact BEST Health System today to take the first step of your treatment journey