Bowel – or fecal - incontinence is characterized by the involuntary leakage of stool, can profoundly impact one's daily life. There are many potential causes, often stemming from muscle or nerve damage in the rectum or anal sphincter due to childbirth trauma, anal surgery, or conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Chronic diarrhea, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, and pelvic floor dysfunction can also contribute to its development.

Certain risk factors create a higher likelihood of bowel incontinence, including aging, childbirth, obesity, neurological disorders, and pelvic radiation therapy. Recognizing the symptoms and early intervention are crucial!

The symptoms include:

-  Inability to control bowel movements

-  Frequent urgency to have a bowel movement

-  Leakage of stool especially during or after physical activity

-  Inability to fully clean oneself after a bowel movement (ie wiping and wiping and wiping and still having a lot of poop on the toilet paper)

-  Overwhelming need to defecate which occurs suddenly

There are a range of treatments that include dietary and lifestyle modifications all the way up to surgery.

At Houston Community Surgical, Dr. Belizaire provides a safe, judgement free environment for patients to discuss all colorectal related health issues, including bowel and bladder incontinence.

Please come see us, I want to help you!