Faecal incontinence
Faecal incontinence, also known as bowel incontinence or bowel leakage, is the loss of bowel control.
This can range from occasionally leaking a small amount of stool and passing gas, to not being able to control bowel movements.
Types of faecal incontinence
Some people with bowel incontinence feel the urge to have bowel movements, but may not be able to control the passing of faeces before reaching a toilet. This is known as urge faecal incontinence. Other people do not feel the sensation of a pending bowel movement and will pass stool or wind without knowing it. This is known as passive faecal incontinence.
Urge faecal incontinence
In urge faecal incontinence, people feel the need to go to the toilet â which may come on quickly â but are unable to control the passing of stool before getting there.
Passive faecal incontinence
In passive faecal incontinence, people pass stool without realising it. Streaks or staining of underwear with stool is known as soiling. There might be slight soiling when you pass wind (gas).
Common symptoms and consequences of faecal incontinence
Bowel incontinence may be a problem if:
- There is a sudden urge to pass stool and it is not possible to make it to the toilet in time
- Underwear is soiled without realising the need to use the toilet
- Sometimes, when passing wind, stool is also leaked unintentionally
- There may be reluctance or fear to leave home without knowing where the nearest toilet is located
- Fear of experiencing a bowel accident may prevent someone from going out, if at all possible
People with bowel incontinence may face challenges in their personal relationships, as they might feel uncomfortable discussing their condition with others or may be unable to participate in activities that involve being away from a bathroom for long periods.
Faecal incontinence (bowel incontinence) can also cause emotional distress, which may develop into anxiety and depression. This may have a significant impact on a personâs quality of life, contributing to feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and reduced confidence in daily activities.
Getting support
People experiencing symptoms of bowel disorders such as bowel incontinence are not alone. If you are living with bowel incontinence, a doctor or other healthcare professional can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and discuss treatment options.
Learn more
How to treat bowel dysfunction?
The process of managing faecal incontinence or constipation is called âbowel managementâ.
Who can benefit from bowel irrigation?
Bowel irrigation is reported to be beneficial in managing functional and neurogenic bowel disorders.
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