Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Difficulty controlling bowels
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat are Difficulty controlling bowels?
Difficulty controlling bowels, often referred to as fecal incontinence, can be a distressing condition, but it's important to know that you're not alone, and help is available. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can empower you to seek support and improve your quality of life.
Symptoms of Difficulty controlling bowels
- Uncontrolled leakage of stool, often without warning
- Urgency to go to the bathroom but difficulty making it in time
- Inability to fully control bowel movements, even when trying to hold it in
- Discomfort or embarrassment due to accidents
What causes Difficulty controlling bowels?
Fecal incontinence can result from various causes, including:
- Weakened pelvic muscles: This can happen due to aging, childbirth, or surgery.
- Nerve damage: Injury to the nerves controlling bowel movements can result in incontinence.
- Chronic constipation: Straining to pass stool over time can damage muscles and nerves.
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, or other inflammatory bowel conditions can contribute.
Risk factors for Difficulty controlling bowels
- Childbirth: Vaginal delivery, especially with a large baby, can weaken the pelvic muscles.
- Aging: As we age, muscle strength and nerve function can decline.
- Chronic constipation: Straining can lead to damage of the muscles involved in bowel control.
- Nerve damage: Conditions like diabetes or spinal cord injuries can affect the nerves controlling the bowels.
- Surgery: Certain abdominal or rectal surgeries can damage the muscles and nerves responsible for bowel control.
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How are Difficulty controlling bowels diagnosed?
To diagnose the cause of fecal incontinence, your doctor may:
- Conduct a physical exam to check for muscle weakness or abnormalities.
- Perform a rectal exam to assess the muscles and tissues in the anal area.
- Use imaging tests or manometry to evaluate the function of the rectum and anal muscles.
- Order tests to check for underlying conditions like IBS or Crohn's disease.
How are Difficulty controlling bowels treated?
Treatment varies depending on the cause but may include:
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen the muscles involved in bowel control.
- Biofeedback therapy to help retrain the body's response to bowel movements.
- Medications to treat underlying conditions like IBS or constipation.
- Surgical procedures: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair or strengthen the muscles or nerves.
Medications for Difficulty controlling bowels
Medications like stool softeners, anti-diarrheal drugs, or medications for underlying conditions like IBS can help manage symptoms. NiHowdy can assist you in saving on these prescriptions, making it easier to stay on track with your treatment and regain control over your health.
Can Difficulty controlling bowels be prevented?
You can reduce your risk of developing fecal incontinence by:
- Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through regular exercises.
- Avoiding chronic constipation by eating a fiber-rich diet and drinking plenty of water.
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the pelvic area.
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes that affect nerve function.
Managing Difficulty controlling bowels at home
- Do pelvic floor exercises regularly to strengthen the muscles that control bowel movements.
- Eat a fiber-rich diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation or diarrhea.
- Use absorbent pads or specialized undergarments if needed to manage accidents with confidence.
When should you seek help for Difficulty controlling bowels?
If you're experiencing frequent accidents, severe discomfort, or a sudden onset of symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.
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How NiHowdy helps with Difficulty controlling bowels
NiHowdy offers savings on medications like stool softeners, anti-diarrheal drugs, and treatments for underlying conditions. With NiHowdy's savings and Bitcoin rebates, you can better manage the cost of treatment while focusing on improving your health and regaining control.
Success stories with Difficulty controlling bowels
Milo had struggled with fecal incontinence due to weakened pelvic muscles after surgery. By using NiHowdy to save on his medications and treatments, he was able to regain control and improve his quality of life.
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