Do you have accidents…
Do you sometimes not make it to the restroom…
Don’t worry. You are not alone. We can help!
An unintentional bowel movement, known as fecal incontinence (FI), it is an extremely upsetting experience. It can take a large toll on the quality of life and mental health of patients and their family members.
Fecal Incontinence, or bowl incontinence, is the inability to control bowel movements causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly or uncontrollably from the rectum. People with this condition may be unable to stop the urge to defecate and therefore not make it to the restroom in time.
Fecal incontinence can be embarrassing, but don’t shy away from talking to your doctor about this common problem. Treatments can improve fecal incontinence and your quality of life.
Why does this happen?
For many, there may be more than one cause of bowel incontinence. Common causes can include muscle damage, nerve damage, constipation, diarrhea (loose stool), hemorrhoids, loss of storage capacity in the rectum, surgery, rectal prolapse, physical inactivity, childbirth by vaginal delivery and rectocele.
Fecal Incontinence can also be accompanied by other bowel issues including:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Gas and bloating
What are the treatments or therapies for FI?
Conservative options for Fecal incontinence include:
- Dietary Changes
- Medication
- Physical Therapy
But there are also alternative treatment options such as Solesta Injections and InterStim therapy.
InterStim therapy is a small implant known to improve function of the anal sphincter and muscles within the pelvic floor. Approved by the FDA in 2011, over 350,000 people have been treated with it. This therapy is recommended by both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons due to its 89% efficacy rate.
“The reason patients’ love InterStim Therapy is because they get to do a test drive with it”, Goldstein states. “Patients come to the endoscopy center where I place the trial device, and five days later they come back to the office knowing whether or not the therapy is right for them. We rate success as at least a 50% decrease of accidents.”
With several therapy options, there is no reason to not change your life. Contact Hunterdon Gastroenterology Associates today to discuss what option is best for you.
This can change your life. Don’t hesitate! 908-483-4000
