Fecal Incontinence
What is Fecal Incontinence?
Fecal incontinence is the involuntary passage or the inability to control the discharge of fecal matter.
There are three subtypes:
- Passive incontinence: the involuntary discharge of stool or gas without awareness
- Urge incontinence: the discharge of fecal matter in spite of active attempts to retain bowel contents
- Fecal: the leakage of stool following normal evacuation
Fecal incontinence is caused by three factors: muscle impairment, nerve impairment, and fecal compaction. The rectum is a muscular tube composed of a continuous layer of muscle that connects to the pelvic floor muscle. This unique muscle arrangement enables the rectum to serve as a holding tank and a pump for emptying stool. When the muscles become weak or stop working together, fecal incontinence may occur.
If you are experiencing any of these above symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Drs. Pezzella and Rueb today.
Call us at (803) 457-7000 or
Treatments for Fecal Incontinence
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic floor PT can be used to strengthen pelvic floor muscles such that symptoms of prolapse are less bothersome. PT can also help address the urinary and fecal symptoms associated with prolapse. The pelvic muscles are evaluated for strength, coordination, and tone.
Axonics® Therapy
Axonics® Therapy is a Sacral Neuromodulation treatment that uses an implanted device to deliver electrical stimulation to the sacral nerves, helping to regulate bladder and bowel function and manage symptoms such as urinary incontinence.
Medtronic InterStim™ Therapy
Sacral Neuromodulation is a treatment technique that involves implanting a device to deliver electrical stimulation to the sacral nerves, helping to regulate bladder and bowel function and manage symptoms such as urinary and fecal incontinence.
Intro To Condition: Fecal Incontinence
Fecal Incontinence
Frequently Asked Questions
Fecal incontinence can be caused by various factors, including muscle or nerve damage in the rectum or anus, diarrhea, constipation, childbirth trauma, aging, certain medical conditions, or surgical procedures.
Fecal incontinence is more common than you may think, affecting people of all ages, though it becomes more prevalent with age. It can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.
A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination. Additional diagnostic tests such as anorectal manometry, endoscopy, anal ultrasound, or imaging may be necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment options for fecal incontinence depend on the cause and severity of the condition. They can include dietary changes, medications, pelvic floor muscle exercises, biofeedback therapy, bowel training, or surgical interventions like sacral neuromodulation.
While complete cure may not always be possible, many treatment options can effectively manage and improve symptoms of fecal incontinence in most individuals.
Yes, certain lifestyle modifications like dietary adjustments, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing bowel habits can help alleviate symptoms and improve bowel control.
