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This Is Hard For Me To Say, But For The
Posted on
Wed, 7 Aug 2019
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Wed, 7 Aug 2019
Answered on
Last reviewed on
Question : This is hard for me to say, but for the last two years or so I have a problem with my anus. About half the time I always have some excrement in my butt area. I clean and clean, so much that I sometimes bleed. I put Vaseline, Preparation H and use baby wipes. I just can't stay clean. I do have constipation problems, but I don't know that this is related. Please help me. It seems the more exercise or movement I do the more excrement is present. What can I do to get rid of this problem. When I walk around at a supermarket or store so much comes out that I smell. Please help me.
Brief Answer:
You are having fecal incontinence, constipation may be the cause
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to Ask a Doctor service,
I carefully read your query and understand your concern.
Leakage of feces is called fecal incontinence. Constipation is a major cause. It is important that you get regular treatment for constipation such as metamucil daily.
You will need to use food rich in fiber, drink plenty of water and try to keep active.
Fecal deodorants (over the counter) can be used to reduce the smell of your feces.
You may need to use the toilet before going out and also use pads to protect you.
As for the skin, to prevent irritation, it is recommended to just wash the anal area with water and avoid soap or detergents as these can cause irritation. You may use wipes but they have to be alcohol free and odor free.
You need to let the skin dry well or gently pad the area with toilet paper. Dry toilet paper alone can make the irritation worse.
Wear cotton underwear.
If you are not better with these you will need a check to evaluate the strength of the anal muscles and also a vaginal exam to rule out rectocele (prolapse of the rectal wall in the vagina), and neurological conditions. A colonoscopy may be indicated in these cases as well.
I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician.
You are having fecal incontinence, constipation may be the cause
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to Ask a Doctor service,
I carefully read your query and understand your concern.
Leakage of feces is called fecal incontinence. Constipation is a major cause. It is important that you get regular treatment for constipation such as metamucil daily.
You will need to use food rich in fiber, drink plenty of water and try to keep active.
Fecal deodorants (over the counter) can be used to reduce the smell of your feces.
You may need to use the toilet before going out and also use pads to protect you.
As for the skin, to prevent irritation, it is recommended to just wash the anal area with water and avoid soap or detergents as these can cause irritation. You may use wipes but they have to be alcohol free and odor free.
You need to let the skin dry well or gently pad the area with toilet paper. Dry toilet paper alone can make the irritation worse.
Wear cotton underwear.
If you are not better with these you will need a check to evaluate the strength of the anal muscles and also a vaginal exam to rule out rectocele (prolapse of the rectal wall in the vagina), and neurological conditions. A colonoscopy may be indicated in these cases as well.
I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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