Overview
Fecal incontinence is not being able to control bowel movements. Stool leaks from the rectum without warning. Fecal incontinence ranges from an occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control. Fecal incontinence is sometimes called bowel incontinence.
Common causes of fecal incontinence include diarrhea, constipation, and muscle or nerve damage. The muscle or nerve damage may be associated with aging or with giving birth.
Whatever the cause, fecal incontinence can be difficult to discuss. But don’t shy away from talking to your doctor about this common problem. Treatments can improve fecal incontinence and your quality of life.
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Symptoms
Fecal incontinence may occur during an occasional bout of diarrhea. But for some people, fecal incontinence happens a lot. People with this condition may not be able to stop the urge to defecate. It may come on so suddenly that you can’t make it to the toilet in time. This is called urge incontinence.
Another type of fecal incontinence occurs in people who are not aware of the need to pass stool. This is called passive incontinence.
Fecal incontinence may happen with other bowel problems, such as:
- Diarrhea.
- Constipation.
- Gas and bloating.
When to see a doctor
See your health care provider if you or your child develops fecal incontinence. This is especially important if it happens a lot, is severe or causes emotional distress. Often, people are too embarrassed to tell a provider about fecal incontinence. But the sooner you’re evaluated, the sooner you may find some relief from your symptoms.
