Incontinence is the impaired ability to control gas or stool. To put in the simple way fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. Fecal incontinence is also called bowel incontinence. Incontinence to stool is a common problem that we can see in today’s lifestyle or mostly in old age, but often it is not discussed due to embarrassment that people feel might get from. The main cause of Fecal Incontinence is diarrhea, during childbirth or even constipation may lead to Fecal incontinence. Anal operations or traumatic injury to the tissue surrounding the anal region similarly can damage the anal muscles and hinder bowel control therefore if muscles near the anal region are weak, this can also lead to fecal incontinence. There is a process before advising any type of treatment. There are many test performed to diagnose the fecal incontinence as follow: • Digital rectal exam. A gloved and lubricated finger is inserted into your rectum to evaluate the strength of your sphincter muscles and to check if any abnormalities in the rectal area. • Anal manometry. A narrow, flexible tube is inserted into the anus and rectum. A small balloon at the tip of the tube may be expanded. This test helps measure the tightness of your anal sphincter and the sensitivity and functioning of your rectum. • Colonoscopy. A flexible tube is inserted into your rectum to inspect the entire colon. • MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide clear pictures of the sphincter to determine if the muscles are intact and can also provide images during defecation. Hence, there are many treatment options available for fecal incontinence. Surgical & non surgical treatment both is available for the treatment of fecal incontinence. To mention few of them are as follows: • Dietary changes • Constipating medications • Muscle strengthening exercises • Biofeedback • Surgical muscle repair • Artificial anal sphincter All of the above treatment is advised only after an expert colo-rectal surgeon checks the condition of the patient. Hence meeting your physician on time after you face any such symptoms as mentioned above is a right and appropriate way of treatment. Dr. Ashwin Porwal is a renowned Colo-Rectal surgeon in Pune. Healing Hands Clinic (HHC) specialises in the management of anorectal diseases (Piles/Mulvyadh/Bavasir), Constipation, Fistula(Bhagandar), Rectal Prolapse, Pilonidal Sinus) Hernia, Digestive Diseases & Varicose veins via both surgical and medicinal management methods. Healing Hands Clinic is an ISO certified clinic. Healing Hands Clinic is a Member of ECTA (Colorectal Technologies Association) & ESCP (European Society of Colo-Proctology). For details visit us at: http://www.healinghandsclinic.co.in/incontinence/ Or you can call us at- 8888288884
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