Muscle weakening is a common side effect of aging that may progressively cause a number of physical issues, one of which is fecal incontinence or Bowel Incontinence, the inability to maintain control over the bowels.
In this condition, the person’s ability to control their bowel motions is no longer voluntary.
Bowel control depends on the well-coordinated action of muscles and nerves that help regulate the release of stool.
This loss of control has a great impact on them both psychologically and physically, causing worry and humiliation.
However, there is hope for all those suffering from this condition. With proper guidance on changes in lifestyle and practical tips, it is possible to regain control.
Therefore, we will be discussing the common bowel control challenges in this blog, along with a number of ways how to manage and improve them.
Understanding Bowel Control Challenges
Fecal incontinence is not an illness but rather an underlying issue. It happens when the muscles and nerves that control bowel movements are affected. Common causes include:
1. Muscle Damage
Damage to the anal sphincter, for example, after giving birth or surgery, can compromise its coordinating ability, and hence the muscles lose their capability of retaining stool.
2. Nerve Damage
Disorders such as diabetes, stroke or spinal cord damage may affect nerves that help to control bowel movements.
3. Chronic Diarrhea or Constipation
Chronic digestive problems may overstretch or loosen rectal musculature, making it hard to control bowel movement.
4. Rectal Prolapse or Hemorrhoids
Structural abnormalities in the rectal area can pose a problem with the proper movement of the bowels.
5. Aging
The muscles and nerves naturally lose their tone and sensitivity with age, which may lead to fecal incontinence in older women.
Identifying the reason is essential to choosing the best course of action.
Simple Fixes for Bowel Control Challenges
Despite these complications, there are numerous simple measures and lifestyle changes that can help get rid of fecal incontinence, alleviate symptoms, or even avoid worsening of bowel control issues.
1. Dietary Adjustments
The variety of foods you consume regularly greatly influences the functioning of your bowel system. Some dietary tips include:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber provides texture to the stool, making it easier to control. Increase your consumption of whole grains, fruits and vegetables in your diet.
- Stay Hydrated: It is important to drink plenty of water to avoid constipation and for proper digestion.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Some foods like caffeine, spicy foods, or fatty foods make the symptoms worse. Try to pay attention to your diet and exclude foods that cause triggers.
2. Physical exercise that can help strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles
There are certain exercises to help strengthen the muscles, one of which is Kegel’s. Kegel exercises assist in maintaining the “fitness” of your pelvic floor muscles. Similar to how lifting weights may help you build other muscles in your body, Kegel exercises can help you maintain the strength of your pelvic floor muscles.
How to Perform Kegels
- Locate the pelvic floor muscles by trying to halt the urine stream halfway.
- Then squeeze these muscles for 5 seconds and release them for another 5 seconds.
- Perform this exercise 10 to 15 times each day.
Over time, consistent practice might result in noticeable progress.
3. Over-the-Counter Remedies
There are certain medicines that help you with bowel movements. Some of them are listed below.
- Anti-Diarrheal Medications: Medications such as loperamide can be consumed to lower the number of bowel movements and firm up stools.
- Stool Softeners: These can assist in avoiding hard stools and the pressure to be applied while making bowel movements.
4. Regular Bathroom Habits
Creating a regular schedule of visits to the bathroom will help accustom the body to regular bowel movements.
- Set a Schedule: Consider scheduling the need to urinate at a specific time of day, such as after meals.
- Take Your Time: Do not try to hurry things up because it might result in incompleteness of bowel movements.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight may cause more pressure in the pelvic floor muscles, leading to worsened fecal incontinence. Try incorporating exercise and good nutrition to ensure a healthy weight and a proper digestive system.
6. Use Protective Products
Specifically for people who tend to have numerous accidents, there are protective items such as absorbent fecal incontinence pads or adult diapers that offer assurance and avoid feelings of shame. However, remember not to wear these products for prolonged periods since they might cause a diaper rash.
When to Seek Professional Help
Although minor changes can help you manage this condition, there are occasions that need expert solutions. Seeking medical advice is essential if:
1. Symptoms Persist or Worsen
If home remedies do not solve the problem or symptoms become recurring and intense, seek medical advice from a doctor.
2. Pain or Bleeding Occurs
Changes in the color or consistency of stool or situations where one experiences pain or rectal bleeding may point toward severe conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Sudden Onset of Symptoms
Sudden diarrhea or temporary inability to retain feces may indicate a neurological problem that needs medical intervention.
4. Underlying Medical Conditions
Bowel control problems can be made worse by illnesses including diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It could be required to receive specialized therapy.
Preventing Bowel Control Issue
Well, it is an old saying that prevention is better than cure.
To lower risk for fecal incontinence control challenges, consider the following:
1. Prioritize Digestive Health
Eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and refrain from long periods of constipation or diarrhea.
2. Exercise Regularly
Exercise enhances proper bowel movements and prevents obesity, a leading cause of fecal incontinence.
3. Avoid Straining
Straining during defecation can cause damage to rectal muscles. Try to keep a good posture and take the time to relax if you need to use the restroom. By relaxing, you not only relax your pelvis but also prevent yourself from urge incontinence.
4. Go for a Checkup if You Have Digestive Problems
It is important to treat conditions that may cause bowel control problems, such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), hemorrhoids or chronic diarrhea at an earlier stage.
5. Be Cautious Post-Childbirth
Any female, who has given vaginal birth, should watch for signs of incontinence or consult with a doctor if there is any suspicion.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Fecal incontinence often becomes a source of concern for a patient and may cause embarrassment and anxiety or prevent an individual from socializing. It’s important to:
- Seek Support: Seek support through and participate in support groups/counseling as you deal with the emotional aspects.
- Communicate Openly: Share your concerns with relatives or friends you know are reliable.
- Focus on Solutions: Just remember that there are effective treatments and management of this disorder.
Final Word
Bowel control issues might be intimidating, but they are not insurmountable. Most people may recover control and enhance their quality of life with the correct mix of food modifications, lifestyle adjustments, and medical treatments.
Consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible if you or someone you know is experiencing fecal incontinence. Bowel control problems may be managed with time and effort, opening the door to a more secure and pleasant existence.
