Treatment Plan To Help Manage Fecal Incontinence: Diagnosis & Management

With old age, the body tends to lose control of different functions. Fecal incontinence is one such issue. This condition means losing control of bowel movements, causing feces to leak uncontrollably from the rectum. Sometimes called anal or bowel incontinence ranges from an occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control. Fecal incontinence is common, affecting about 1 in 3 people at various degrees. In most cases, a combination of treatments can help with disease management.

Diagnosing the disease

Fecal incontinence is more likely to affect older adults and can cause distress. A family doctor or gastroenterologist will perform tests to determine the condition’s cause. Common causes include severe or long-lasting constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or Crohn’s disease.
Hemorrhoids, childbirth, or surgery that damages the muscles or nerves are other common causes.

It’s time for treatment

Treatments vary according to the cause of bowel incontinence. More than one therapy may be necessary to control severe symptoms. The goal is to improve anal sphincter control and increase awareness of the urge to use the bathroom. For treatment to work, patients must be open and honest about symptoms, which can be embarrassing. Keep in mind fecal incontinence is a medical problem. Ask as many questions as possible to understand the condition and necessary to improve incontinence.

Physical and Occupational therapies

If muscle damage is causing fecal incontinence, a doctor can recommend exercises and therapies to restore muscle strength. These include Kegel exercises and other lower body techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor. Occupational therapy (OT) is a range of strategies that can help with psychological, self-care, and everyday functions. OT includes a demonstration on correct toilet use, scheduled toileting, and proper hygiene.

Lifestyle changes

Managing and maintaining a healthy diet can staying hydrated can regulate defecation, prevent diarrhea and constipation. A high-fiber diet including fresh fruit and vegetables can help with proper bowel movements. Avoiding certain foods and drinks is just as important. Reducing the intake of spicy foods, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods may reduce symptoms.

Medication Management

Depending on the cause of fecal incontinence, the doctor can use anti-diarrheal drugs or bulk laxatives such as methylcellulose and psyllium. Steroid and anti-inflammatory prescription medication can help with underlying conditions like IBS or Crohn’s disease. Some people with severe flare-ups may need absorbent pads or adult diapers with medication.

Is surgery required?

Depending on the cause of fecal incontinence, treatment can include sphincteroplasty. The goal is to reconnect and strengthen the sphincter muscles. A colorectal, gynecological, or general surgeon will cut and sew the muscles back in an overlapping fashion. This technique tightens and strengthens the sphincter and can help patients avoid a colostomy. A colostomy is a last resort, and the doctor diverts the colon outside the abdominal wall to collect the stool in a surgical bag.

Preventative measures

Almost all cases of fecal incontinence are treatable. The goal is first to diagnose the cause of the condition. Minor disease cases will benefit from physical therapy and medication, and severe cases may need surgery. In all cases, a healthy diet, exercise, and management of toilet schedules can help. A family doctor or specialist can help formulate a plan to improve the quality of life.