Bowel Incontinence Loss of bowel control “My father was so embarrassed and worried about soiling himself, he refused to leave the house. We finally managed to persuade him to see a doctor and were surprised to find out it was caused by constipation. He has been on treatment since, and things are nearly back to normal. It’s so good to see him enjoying life again!”
What is it? Bowel incontinence is a loss of bowel control, resulting in accidental soiling. What problems can it cause? • Feelings of shame, anger and loneliness. • Skin irritation and broken skin (sores) on the buttocks and anus, if the skin is in constant contact with watery stools.
Who does it affect? • Men and women of all ages. • More common among the elderly. What causes it? • Severe constipation where the hardened stool blocking the lowest part of the large bowel (rectum) - liquid bowel contents leak past the solid stools. • Diarrhoea. • Weak or damaged muscle. • Nerve damage. • Using laxatives over a long period of time.
What are the signs? • Unable to control bowel movements. • Leakage of gas and bowel. • Soiling of underwear before reaching the toilet. Can it be treated? Yes! Treatment can improve or restore bowel control. It usually involves: • Preventing constipation. • Improving bowel control. • Modifying the diet. • There are several ways to treat bowel incontinence. Your specialist nurse or doctor will recommend the best treatment for your condition:
Please do not suffer in silence - tell your doctor or nurse if you have this problem so they can help you get it treated.
Bowel Retraining This involves exercises to strengthen the muscles that open and close the anus. Medication Your doctor may prescribe pills to stop diarrhoea or slow down bowel movements. Mild laxatives may also be given to prevent constipation. Surgery An operation can sometimes help to improve bowel control by: • Tightening the muscles that control bowel movements. • Treating piles (haemorrhoids). • Repairing damage to the anal muscles or nerves. If your doctor advises you to have surgery, you may need to do some tests before the operation.
What can I do? Adjusting your food and drink intake can help to prevent constipation and improve bowel control. Eat more fibre Fibre adds bulk to stools making them easier to pass. • Eat fibre-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables, brown rice and wholegrain bread. • Aim for 20-30g of fibre a day but increase the amount slowly to prevent bloatedness. Drink up! Water helps to soften the stools making them easier to pass through the bowel passage. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, unless your doctor has told you to drink less fluids. Eat smaller meals Eating three main meals a day may stimulate your bowel to move faster. Instead, eat small frequent meals throughout the day.
Watch what you eat If you notice that your problem seems worsened after eating certain foods try stopping them for a few days to see if there is any improvement.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
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