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What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Fecal Incontinence?

The hygiene aisles in most department stores typically have a number of products designed specifically for urinary incontinence. Less common are products that are designed to aid in protection from fecal incontinence. What is fecal incontinence, and what are its signs and symptoms?

  1. What Is Fecal Incontinence?

    • Fecal incontinence is a medical condition in which the sufferer cannot exercise control over bowel movements. The condition affects both children and adults, with an estimated 5.5 million Americans experiencing symptoms.

    Stool/Gas

    • The primary symptom of fecal incontinence is the passage of stool or gas without the individual's control. The sufferer may still sense that they have to use the restroom, but they simply cannot get there in time to avoid an accident.

    Constipation

    • Constipation is another symptom of fecal incontinence, or more specifically of impending incontinence. When constipation occurs, the muscles in the rectum and sphincter weaken. This is because the stool that is unable to be passed stretches the muscles and surrounding tissue. The stretched muscles cannot act as effectively to control the sufferer's bowel movements.

    Nerve/Muscle Damage

    • Nerve and muscle damage is another sign of fecal incontinence. Nerves allow the muscles in the rectum and sphincter to contract, so if nerves are damaged, loss of bowel control occurs. Similarly, if the muscles themselves are damaged, they may be unable to respond to the nerve impulses as effectively. This sometimes occurs after rectal surgery or giving birth.

    Leakage

    • Leakage from the anus occurs frequently with fecal incontinence. This is because solid stool that does form is easier to keep within the rectum than fecal matter that has a higher fluid content.

    Diagnosis

    • If you suspect you have fecal incontinence, the condition can be confirmed through a visit to your doctor. The tests that might be done include a digital rectal exam, anal manometry, anorectal ultrasonography and anal electromyography. All of these tests, although completed in various ways with or without additional equipment, are means for the doctor to confirm the strength of rectal muscles and the condition of related nerves. Your doctor will perform one or more of these tests after discussing your symptoms and medical history with you.

    Treatments

    • Treatments for fecal incontinence include surgery, medications such as laxatives and stool softeners, dietary changes and bowel training that strengthens muscles. It also may include treatment for an impacted bowel and stimulation of the sacral nerve. It is recommended that the anal area be kept as clean and dry as possible regardless of what type of treatment is suggested, because constant contact with fecal matter can irritate the skin surrounding the anus and lead to discomfort.

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