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This condition signifies a lack of control over bowel movements. This can lead to uncomfortable circumstances for the patient, including the unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum. This condition can range in severity. Our practice has extensive experience treating this condition, allowing for improved outcomes for patients.
Information About Fecal Incontinence
What is Fecal Incontinence?
Fecal incontinence is a condition in which control of bowel movements is decreased, leading to leakage of stool. This can range from small amounts of stool being passed accidentally to patients being unable to hold in bowel movements before they can reach a bathroom. It may occur, at times, without the patient being aware of it.
This condition, as you can imagine, can be incredibly difficult for patients, leading to uncomfortable situations and producing lowered self-confidence, mental health symptoms like depression, and physical discomfort. If you are struggling with this condition, Sonoran Surgical is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and compassionate care. There are treatments available that can restore your self-confidence and provide you with relief.
Fecal Incontinence Causes and Symptoms
Fecal incontinence can be caused by a range of factors that may lead to decreased control of bowel movements. Along with unintentional leakage of stool, fecal incontinence may be accompanied by constipation, bloating, excess gas, and diarrhea.
If the nerves that sense stool in the rectum are injured or impaired, decreased control of bowel movements may occur as a result. Nerve damage can occur for a variety of reasons, including childbirth, consistent straining, diabetes, and long-term constipation, among others. In addition, muscle damage to the anal sphincter can also cause decreased control. Other potential causes include consistent diarrhea, external hemorrhoids, muscle weakness, and rectal prolapse. Whatever the cause may be, there is treatment available to lessen discomfort and promote self-confidence for patients.
Fecal Incontinence Treatment
As with any condition, the beginning of the journey toward recovery is diagnosis. Our Board-Certified Anorectal Experts are dedicated to working with patients to develop an individualized treatment and recovery program catered toward the patient’s individual needs. Several diagnostic techniques may be utilized to determine the nature of the condition, including diagnostic imaging, a digital exam, and tests to measure the function of the muscles and nerves in the area. In some cases, a colonoscopy may also be performed.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
There are several nonsurgical treatment options that may be implemented by our team. These include:
- Changes in diet
- Oral medication
- Physical training
- Stimulation of the nerves
- Solesta® training to narrow the canal
- Interstim™ Neurostimulation
If these treatments do not effectively resolve symptoms, surgical options may be considered.
Surgical Treatment Options
These are typically minimally invasive and include:
- Colostomy to redirect stool through an opening that is created in the abdomen
- Sphincteroplasty, a procedure designed to repair a previously damaged sphincter (damage often occurs during childbirth)
- Surgeries to repair and address other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, rectocele, and rectal prolapse
Choosing the Right Treatment
Our team of experts will work diligently with you to determine which treatment option, or combination of options, is best suited for you and your needs.
What to Expect After Fecal Incontinence Treatment
Recovery depends on the type of treatment and individual response. Non-surgical options like dietary changes or nerve stimulation often show gradual improvement with regular follow-up. After surgery, some swelling or changes in bowel habits are normal as healing begins. Our team will provide clear aftercare instructions and support you through each step to help ensure lasting results and improved control.
How to Prevent Fecal Incontinence
Preventing fecal incontinence often involves maintaining good bowel health and strengthening the muscles that control bowel movements. Eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated can help keep stools soft and regular, reducing the risk of constipation or straining that may weaken the anal sphincter over time. Regular exercise, including pelvic floor exercises, can improve muscle tone and bowel control. It’s also important to manage underlying conditions such as diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease, which can contribute to incontinence. If symptoms begin to develop, early evaluation and treatment by a healthcare provider can prevent worsening of the condition.