What is bowel incontinence and how is it treated?

If you are experiencing issues with controlling your bowels, you may be dealing with a condition known as bowel incontinence. Bowel incontinence, sometimes referred to by professionals as fecal incontinence, is the inability to control the bowels. This includes leaking stool from the rectum or having the urge to use the bathroom but be unable to make it in time. This can be extremely embarrassing for adults, and it affects both men and women. Bowel incontinence is not normal and should be treated for health and emotional reasons.

How is bowel incontinence diagnosed?

First, a patient must get a proper diagnosis of their condition before discussing their treatment options with professionals. The physicians of Texas Center of Health will evaluate a patient, starting with their medical history and continuing into a physical examination. Some tools used to diagnose this condition include:

• Anorectal manometry
• Defecography
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Physical evaluation of the rectum or colon
• X-rays to check for other signs of disease

Once a patient has a proper diagnosis, they can then work with their doctor to find the best treatment for their condition.

How is bowel incontinence treated?

The treatment of fecal incontinence varies depending on several factors including the cause and the severity of the condition. Some of the more common ways in which our team may help treat this condition is with:

• Changes in diet, including the addition of fiber
• Fiber supplements to manage constipation
• The use of medications to slow the bowels
• Biofeedback, which strengthens the pelvic muscles and helps control bowel urges
• The use of bulking agents in the anus
• Stimulation of the nerves in the lower pelvis
• Surgical intervention, specifically when damage has been caused to the pelvic floor or the anal sphincter

Learn more about bowel incontinence at the Texas Center for Health

If you believe you are dealing with bowel incontinence and want to speak privately with a physician about effective treatment options, we welcome you to call the Texas Center for Health at (409) 923-0012. Our professionals in Beaumont, Texas can provide the best possible care for you and provide a definitive diagnosis and effective services for treatment. Our facility is conveniently located at 2929 Calder Avenue, Suite #204 and accepts new patients.