Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: There is Hope

Ways To Manage And Treat Bowel Incontinence

Bowel incontinence, also known as fecal incontinence, is the inability to control the passage of gas or stools through the anus. It can affect people of any age, but it is more common in older adults and women who have given birth vaginally.

Bowel incontinence can have a significant impact on your quality of life, causing embarrassment, social isolation, and low self-esteem. However, there are many ways to manage and treat this condition. Here are some of them.

Diet Changes

Eating a balanced diet that includes a substantial amount of fiber per day can help regulate your bowel movements and make them easier to control. Fiber can bulk up your stool if you have diarrhea or soften it if you have constipation.

You should also drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and constipation. Avoid foods and drinks that may worsen your symptoms, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, dairy products, or artificial sweeteners.

Medications

Depending on the cause of your bowel incontinence, your doctor may prescribe medications that can help reduce or relieve your symptoms. For example, anti-diarrheal medicines can slow down your bowel movements and make them more solid. Additionally, laxatives, stool softeners, or fiber supplements can help you pass stool more easily if you have constipation.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

These are exercises that strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and the anal sphincter. They involve contracting and relaxing these muscles repeatedly for several minutes a day. You can do them at home or with the guidance of a physical therapist. Pelvic floor exercises can improve your anal sphincter control and your awareness of the urge to defecate.

Bowel Training

This is a technique that helps you establish a regular pattern of bowel movements and reduce accidents. It involves setting a fixed time each day to sit on the toilet and try to pass stool, whether you feel the urge or not. You should avoid straining or rushing and instead use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or reading. Bowel training can help you empty your rectum completely and prevent overflow incontinence.

Biofeedback

This is a form of therapy that uses sensors attached to your anus and rectum to measure your muscle activity and pressure. A computer screen displays this information as sounds or images that you can see or hear. A therapist helps you interpret this feedback and teaches you how to improve your muscle coordination and control. Biofeedback can help you learn how to contract and relax your anal sphincter more effectively.

Surgery

If other treatments are not effective or suitable for your condition, your doctor may suggest surgery as a last resort. There are different types of surgery that can help treat bowel incontinence, such as sphincter repair, sphincter replacement, or colostomy.

To learn more about effective treatments for bowel incontinence, schedule a consultation with a physician in your local area.