Fecal incontinence means one is not able to hold their feces, or stool, until they get to a toilet.

There are
many reasons for this, such as a case of diarrhea that strikes suddenly or damaged muscles or nerves
within the rectum. The rectum is the last section of the intestine, and controls bowel movements and
signals when one needs to go (Fecal (Bowel) Incontinence: Causes, Tests & Treatment).

Fecal incontinence can be caused by a chronic illness, injury or surgery, and include the following:
diarrhea or constipation, large hemorrhoids, injuries or diseases of the spinal cord, congenital
abnormalities, diabetes, severe dementia, extensive inflammatory processes, tumors, obstetric injuries,
and operations involving division or dilation of the anal sphincters (Mayo Clinic 2018).

Symptoms of fecal incontinence include leaking stool when not using the toilet, such as when you cough
or pass gas, passing stool before reaching the toilet.

Diagnosis of fecal incontinence will include a physical exam, health and medical history, description of
symptoms and use of imaging texts such as anal manometry, MRI, proctography, proctosigmoidoscopy,
and anal electromyography.

Treatment of fecal incontinence will depend on its cause. A combination of treatments may be required
to manage fecal incontinence and may include the following: medications, high fiber diet, muscle
training, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, anal plug, and surgery (Mayo Clinic 2018).

Complications of fecal incontinence include emotional and social distress, depression, physical irritation,
poor nutrition (Treatment of Fecal Incontinence | NIDDK).

Many causes of fecal incontinence cannot be prevented; however, one may learn ways to prevent
episodes of incontinence such as avoiding certain foods and drinks. A diet with high fiber and plenty of
fluids may also help. Certain treatments such as bowel training may help develop a schedule for toileting
throughout the day and in turn prevent incontinent episodes (Fecal (Bowel) Incontinence: Causes, Tests
& Treatment).

References

Mayo Clinic. 2018. Fecal incontinence - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fecal-incontinence/symptoms-causes/syc-20351397.
Fecal (Bowel) Incontinence: Causes, Tests & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14574-fecal-bowel-incontinence.

Treatment of Fecal Incontinence | NIDDK. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney
Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/bowel-control-problems-
fecal-incontinence/treatment.