Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence, also known as bowel incontinence, is a condition characterized by the inability to control bowel movements, leading to involuntary leakage of stool from the rectum. It can range from occasional leakage of small amounts of stool to complete loss of bowel control.
Types of fecal incontinence:
There are two types of fecal incontinence:
- Urge incontinence: You feel the urge to poop but can’t make it to the toilet fast enough to prevent soiling yourself (having an accident). This is the most common type. It usually involves issues with the muscles that control your bowel movements.
- Passive incontinence: Your rectum (which holds your poop) has stretched as much as it can to contain your poop, but your body isn’t registering that you need to go. In this situation, you’ll pass the movement (poop) without realizing it. This type usually involves issues with how your nerves communicate with your muscles.
Causes:
Fecal incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Muscle Damage: Damage to the muscles of the rectum and anus, often due to childbirth, surgery, or injury, can lead to fecal incontinence.
- Nerve Damage: Damage to the nerves that control the muscles of the rectum and anus, such as from diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injury, can result in fecal incontinence.
- Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea can contribute to fecal incontinence by increasing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements.
- Constipation: Chronic constipation can lead to fecal impaction, which can cause liquid stool to leak around the impacted stool.
- Rectal Prolapse: In some cases, the rectum may protrude from the anus, leading to difficulty controlling bowel movements.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of fecal incontinence may include:
- Involuntary passage of stool or gas
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
- Frequent bowel movements
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation after bowel movements
- Skin irritation or breakdown around the anus
Diagnosis of Fecal Incontinence:
Fecal incontinence is diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and specialized tests. Here is an overview of the diagnostic process:
- Medical History: Dr. Rupali will ask about your symptoms, including the frequency and severity of bowel leakage, any factors that worsen or improve symptoms, and any other relevant medical history.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination may include a visual inspection of the anus and surrounding area to check for signs of skin irritation, hemorrhoids, or other abnormalities. Your doctor may also perform a digital rectal examination, where a gloved, lubricated finger is inserted into the rectum to assess the tone of the anal sphincter muscles and check for any masses or abnormalities.
- Anorectal Manometry: Anorectal manometry is a test that measures the pressure and function of the muscles in the rectum and anus. During the test, a thin, flexible tube with sensors is inserted into the rectum to measure muscle contractions and relaxation. This test can help evaluate the strength and coordination of the muscles involved in bowel control.
- Balloon Expulsion Test: This test evaluates the function of the rectum and anus in expelling a balloon filled with water. It helps assess the ability to evacuate stool and can identify issues with rectal sensation and muscle function.
- MRI Defecography: MRI defecography is a specialized imaging test that provides detailed images of the rectum and surrounding structures during defecation. It can help identify anatomical abnormalities or dysfunction that may be causing fecal incontinence.
- Endoscopy: Endoscopy may be used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum using a flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope. This procedure can help identify any abnormalities, such as inflammation, tumors, or strictures, that may be contributing to fecal incontinence.
- Colonoscopy or Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: These tests may be recommended to evaluate the health of the colon and rectum and check for any structural abnormalities, such as tumors or inflammation, that may be contributing to fecal incontinence.
Treatment & Management Fecal Incontinence:
Fecal incontinence can be treated using a variety of approaches, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common treatments:
- Dietary Changes: Adjusting your diet can help manage fecal incontinence. Increasing fiber intake can improve stool consistency and reduce diarrhea, while avoiding foods that can cause gas or diarrhea, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, can help reduce symptoms.
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms of fecal incontinence. These may include anti-diarrheal medications, stool bulking agents, or medications to reduce bowel spasms.
- Biofeedback Therapy: Biofeedback therapy can help improve muscle coordination and control in the pelvic floor muscles. During a biofeedback session, sensors are used to monitor muscle activity, and you are taught how to better control these muscles.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to treat fecal incontinence. Surgical options may include repairing or reinforcing the anal sphincter muscles, or creating an artificial anal sphincter.
- Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, losing weight, and avoiding heavy lifting can help improve bowel function and reduce symptoms of fecal incontinence.
Why choose Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar for Fecal Incontinence Treatment
- Expertise and Experience: With 8+ years of experience in the field, Dr. Rupali has the knowledge and proficiency necessary to provide comprehensive care for patients suffering from fecal incontinence. She has successfully treated numerous patients with fecal incontinence, helping them improve their quality of life.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Rupali adopts a comprehensive approach to patient care, conducting thorough evaluations to understand the underlying causes of fecal incontinence. By taking into account various factors such as medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic test results, she tailors treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs effectively.
- Advanced Diagnostic Techniques: At Kaizen Gastro Care, Dr. Rupali utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques and state-of-the-art technology to accurately assess and diagnose fecal incontinence. From anorectal manometry to MRI defecography, Dr. Rupali employs a wide range of diagnostic tools to provide precise evaluations and personalized treatment recommendations.
- Holistic Treatment Approach: Rupali believes in taking a holistic approach to fecal incontinence treatment, focusing not only on alleviating symptoms but also on addressing the underlying causes of the condition. By incorporating dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, medications, and therapeutic interventions as needed, she aims to provide comprehensive care that promotes long-term digestive health and well-being.
- Compassionate Care: Patients who choose Dr. Rupali for fecal incontinence treatment can expect to receive compassionate and patient-centered care throughout their treatment journey. Dr. Rupali takes the time to listen to her patients’ concerns, answer their questions, and provide support and guidance every step of the way.
- Positive Patient Experiences: Rupali’s dedication to providing high-quality care and achieving positive patient outcomes is reflected in the numerous success stories and positive testimonials from her satisfied patients. Patients consistently commend Dr. Rupali for her expertise, professionalism, and compassionate approach to care.
- Continued Support and Follow-Up: Beyond the initial consultation and treatment phase, Dr. Rupali remains committed to her patient’s well-being by offering continued support, follow-up appointments, and guidance as needed. Whether adjusting treatment plans or addressing new concerns, Dr. Rupali ensures that her patients receive ongoing care and support to maintain optimal digestive health.
Request a Call Back:
Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar at Kaizen Gastro Care’s highly specialized doctors offers trusted medical advice and expert care for Constipation. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our best gastrophysiologist in Pune if you’re experiencing symptoms of constipation. For more information about our comprehensive treatment options, or to request an appointment with the best Gastroenterologist in Pune call 9763635252