How Can Fecal Incontinence Be Treated?

Hi, thanks for your query at Healthcare Magic. I have read your description and understand your concern. Fecal incontinence is a symptom associated with an inability to control bowel movements. In this condition, the stool is removed from the body unexpectedly. Most people who experience this condition tend to hide their problems and choose to stay home rather than consult with a medical expert. There are many patients who even end up depressed. The ability to resist bowel movements is determined by several factors. 1. Anatomically, puborectal muscle and anal sphincter should be intact. - Puborectal muscles will ensure that the body can control the feces or stools are solid. - Internal anal sphincter, along with hemorrhoid tissue, serves to control the liquid and gas stool or exhaust. 2. Psychologically, some reflexes and normal peristaltic movements are responsible for maintaining a person s bowel ability. 3. The nervous system, including the pudenda nerve, which stimulates the external anus sphincter, should also function normally. 4. Factors of defects or abnormalities in any of these areas may result in fecal incontinence. Patients who are unable to control bowel movements should consult with a surgeon, preferably with a colorectal physician. Several examinations, such as endoanal ultrasound, anal manometry and pudendal nerve examinations, may be performed to determine the exact cause of faecal incontinence. The initial treatment of fecal incontinence is with conventional treatment. The goal is to improve the ability to resist bowel movements, sphincter function and quality of life of the patient. Changes in diet with increased fiber intake can also help. Patients with mild fecal incontinence may consume drugs to compress impurities, such as psyllium. Drugs for constipation, such as loperamide and codeine, can also be beneficial. Keeping the rectum empty can prevent uncontrolled outflow of the stool. In addition, techniques such as the use of suppositories or enemas and colon cleansing can also be attempted. Inflammation or infection of the skin in the perianal can also be treated with topical drug use. Treatment with biofeedback has been shown to be effective for patients with partial nerve inhibition that causes incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises are also recommended, and can be of little use in some cases. If fecal incontinence can not be controlled in the conventional way, surgical interventions should be made. Major improvements can be made to minor sphincter injuries. The most frequent type of sphincter repair is overlapping sphincteroplasty. You can discuss it with your treating doctor. I hope this answer helps you. Take care.