Fecal Incontinence

Overview

The Scientific Mumbo Jumbo:
Fecal incontinence symptoms are defined as the complaints of involuntary leakage of stool or gas. Fecal incontinence may be a result of chronic constipation or childbirth both of which can damage surrounding muscles and nerves. Anorectal Manometry is a computer test used to evaluate and diagnose the cause of fecal incontinence. A small probe inserted into the anal canal measures the function and force of the sphincter muscles that control bowel movements. This test can help diagnose the cause of fecal incontinence and constipation. Transrectal/anal ultrasound can also aid in the diagnosis of small injuries to the sphincter.

Keeping it Simple:
Women more frequently experience fecal incontinence than men. The inability to control your gas or bowel movements can be extremely embarrassing and difficult to discuss even with a medical provider. Fecal Incontinence is a type of incontinence caused by damage to muscles and nerves of the anus and rectum during childbirth, chronic constipation, illness or gastrointestinal problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome or colitis. Patients with cancer or who’ve undergone surgery or radiation therapy to the pelvic area may also develop fecal incontinence. Testing for fecal incontinence or constipation is typically completed within 10 minutes during an initial or follow-up office vistt.