Fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. Also called bowel incontinence, fecal incontinence ranges from an occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control.
Common causes of fecal incontinence include diarrhea, constipation, and muscle or nerve damage. The muscle or nerve damage may be associated with aging or with giving birth.
Whatever the cause, fecal incontinence can be embarrassing. But don't be afraid or embarrasses to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing fecal incontinence. Several treatments are available that can improve fecal incontinence and your overall quality of life. The sooner you are evaluated, the sooner you may find some relief from your symptoms.
For many people, there is more than one cause of fecal incontinence. Causes can include: Muscle or nerve damage, constipation, diarrhea, lose of storage capacity in the rectum, surgery, or rectal prolapse.
Depending on the cause, it may be possible to prevent fecal incontinence. These actions may help:
- Reduce constipation. Increase your exercise, eat more high-fiber foods and drink plenty of fluids.
- Control diarrhea. Treating or eliminating the cause of the diarrhea, such as an intestinal infection, may help you avoid fecal incontinence.
- Avoid straining. Straining during bowel movements can eventually weaken anal sphincter muscles or damage nerves, possibly leading to fecal incontinence.
If you are currently dealing with fecal incontinence, we understand that it can be a tremendous burden on your lifestyle. Finding good, quality, and effective products to keep you clean and comfortable are vital to maintaining your quality of life. Rely Medical Supply is your go-to resource for affordable incontinence supplies. Rely Medical Supply has a full range of incontinence products to meet your personal needs. Whether you need adult diapers, protective underwear (pullups), underpads (chux), gloves, wipes, odor control products, or skin care products, Rely Medical Supply has quality products from most major brands.
If you have questions or want to learn more about product options available, speak with a Rely Medical Supply Product Expert. Our compassionate Product Experts are available by calling toll-free at 1-888-529-2308, M-F, 8AM-5PM Central. Our friendly and caring Product Experts will be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you have about our incontinence products, services, or take your order right over the phone.