Forsyth Medical Center 
Colorectal
Bowel Incontinence
| Incontinence to stool is a common problem, but often it is not discussed due to embarassment. |
Incontinence is the inability to control gas or stool and can range from mild difficulty with gas control to severe loss of control over liquid and formed stools. Incontinence problems for both bladder and bowel typically increase with age.
Causes of Incontinence
Obstetric injuries
Injury during childbirth is one of the most common causes. This type of injury reduces muscle strength and may cause separation in the anal muscles.
Injury to anal muscles
Previous operations or injury to the tissue surrounding the anal region can damage the anal muscles and interfere with bowel control.
Anal infections
Infections in the anal area may destroy muscle tissue leading to problems of incontinence.
Decreased muscle strenth with age
As people age, they sometimes experience decreased strength in the anal muscles.
Treatment of Incontinence
- Dietary changes
- Constipating medications
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Biofeedback
- Surgical muscle repair
