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Faecal Incontinence: Understanding and Managing the Condition

08th May 2024

Faecal / Bowel incontinence is a topic often shrouded in silence and discomfort. Yet, it’s essential to shed light on this condition as it can significantly impact individuals’ lives. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify bowel incontinence, providing insights into its causes, symptoms, and management strategies. Additionally, we offer supportive products such as faecal incontinence pads/inlays to aid individuals in their daily lives.

Understanding Bowel Incontinence / Faecal incontinence:

Faecal incontinence refers to the loss of control over bowel movements, resulting in involuntary passage of stool. While it ranges from minor leakage to complete loss of control such as not being able to make it to the toilet in time. Its impact on those impacted daily lives can be profound. Understanding the nuances of bowel incontinence is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.

What Exactly is Fecal incontinence?

Identifying Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Fecal incontinence empowers individuals to seek timely intervention. Symptoms may include:

  • Diarrhoea:

Frequent, loose stools that are difficult to control, leading to accidental leakage.

  • Chronic constipation:

Difficulty sensing the need to pass stool, resulting in infrequent and hard bowel movements.

  • Increased flatulence:

Excessive gas production, accompanied by frequent passing of gas.

  • Abdominal bloating:

Discomfort or pain due to gas accumulation in the abdomen. Persistent symptoms that affect daily life warrant medical evaluation and intervention.


When to Seek Medical Advice from health professional?

While discussing bowel incontinence may evoke feelings of embarrassment, seeking medical advice is paramount.

Here’s why:

  • Unlikely to resolve independently:

Persistent symptoms are unlikely to improve without targeted treatment and can lead to passive incontinence.

  • Treatment options available:

Various treatment or exercises such as kegel exercises could help address bowel incontinence and improve quality of life.

  • Access to support:

Healthcare professionals offer guidance on treatments for bowel incontinence and support tailored to individual needs. Overcoming stigma and seeking help is a proactive step towards regaining control and improving well-being.


Understanding Underlying Causes

 

  • Impacted stool:

Severe constipation can damage nerves and muscles, leading to impaired bowel control.

  • Chronic diarrhoea:

Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause frequent, loose stools.

  • Nerve damage:

Neurological conditions like diabetes or spinal cord injury can disrupt nerve signals responsible for bowel function.

  • Structural abnormalities:

Conditions like haemorrhoids or colorectal cancer can affect bowel function and lead to incontinence. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for targeted treatment and management.


Effective management of bowel incontinence involves a multi-faceted approach, including:

  • Dietary modifications:

Adjusting fibre intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding trigger foods can regulate bowel movements.

  • Pelvic floor exercises:

Strengthening pelvic muscles through targeted exercises improves bowel control.

  • Medications:

Certain medications may help manage symptoms associated with bowel incontinence.

  • Surgical interventions:

In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to address underlying structural issues.

 

Supportive incontinence products:

While undergoing treatment, supportive products play a vital role in managing bowel incontinence.

These may include:

Our Incontinence pads designed for discreet and reliable protection against leakage.

  • All-in-one products:

Comprehensive solutions as our fixation pants that provide security and ease of use.

  • Bed mats:

Protect bedding with our  Incontinence undersheets from accidents during nighttime, ensuring a comfortable sleep.

  • Skin care products:

Gentle barrier creams such as our Gentle Med Cream lotion alleviate discomfort and prevent skin irritation. Maintaining skin health and hygiene is crucial for individuals managing bowel incontinence.

Closing Thoughts

Bowel incontinence has challenges, but with the right support and management strategies, individuals can regain control and improve their quality of life. Our range of products and resources are tailored to support individuals on their journey towards better bowel health and well-being.

 

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Faecal Incontinence: Understanding and Managing the Condition