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Contents
  • Breaking Down Fecal Incontinence
  • Who is at Risk?
  • Exploring the Physiology

What Causes Fecal Incontinence? Find Out Here!

What Causes Fecal Incontinence? Find Out Here!

Understanding the Issue

Fecal incontinence is not just embarrassing, it affects everyday life. Let's explore what causes this condition and how it's evaluated.
Contents
  • Breaking Down Fecal Incontinence
  • Who is at Risk?
  • Exploring the Physiology

Breaking Down Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence is when you lose control over your bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage. It can be classified as urge incontinence, where there's a strong need to go but can't hold it, or passive incontinence, where there's no awareness of the need to go. This condition can severely impact one's quality of life, making it hard to maintain independence.

Who is at Risk?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing fecal incontinence. These include advancing age, chronic diarrhea, and conditions like diabetes. Hormone therapy, especially among postmenopausal women, has also been linked with higher risks. Understanding these can help in taking preventive steps.
Fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, resulting in unexpected leakage. It can be caused by various factors, including age, chronic diarrhea, and medical conditions like diabetes.

Exploring the Physiology

Normal bowel control relies on various factors including cognitive function and muscle control. The anal sphincters and rectal sensation play critical roles in maintaining continence. When any of these systems fail, it can lead to involuntary leakage. Maintaining the right balance of these factors is key to preventing incontinence.

FAQs

What is fecal incontinence?

It's the loss of control over bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage.

Who is most at risk?

Older adults, those with diarrhea or diabetes, and postmenopausal women on hormone therapy.

Is fecal incontinence common?

Yes, it affects a significant number of adults, though many don't report it.

Can it be prevented?

Understanding and managing risk factors can help in prevention.

The Bottom Line

Fecal incontinence is a complex condition with various causes and risk factors.
Get started by talking to Doctronic about managing fecal incontinence today!
Additional References
  1. Bharucha AE, Dunivan G, Goode PS, et al. Am J Gastroenterol 2015; 110:127.
  2. Markland AD, Goode PS, Burgio KL, et al. J Am Geriatr Soc 2010; 58:1341.
  3. Whitehead WE, Borrud L, Goode PS, et al. Gastroenterology 2009; 137:512.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.