What is Fecal Incontinence?

There are some topics that most of us prefer not to discuss openly, and bathroom habits is one of them. As a result, often through fear of embarrassment, many people simply put up with a medical condition which could be severely affecting their quality of life. We just don’t feel comfortable talking to anyone about it, including our doctor.

Fecal incontinence, also known as accidental bowel leakage, might be something you have never heard of before. But it is common and there is no reason to suffer in silence.

Dr. Shafik Sidani, a Colorectal Surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi says, “We want to raise awareness of accidental bowel leakage and make sure those who are suffering silently know that they are not alone and there are solutions. The condition is often taboo in our society, but we want to encourage anyone suffering to talk to their doctor. There are effective treatments available that can help.”

Fecal Incontinence affects millions of people around the world, but due to embarrassment, it is not talked about. In fact, a study in the US showed that as many as 1 in every 5 women above the age of 45 suffers from accidental bowel leakage.

Issues with bowel control lead to the accidental passing of stools, in some cases this makes it difficult to hold a movement in before reaching the bathroom. This can lead to feeling reluctant to leave the house through fear of embarrassing accidents, and can impact normal daily activities. It can also impact confidence and cause of loss of self-esteem. Although it can occur at any age, it is more common in older women. You are more likely to experience fecal incontinence if you have diarrhea, have damaged parts of the nervous system or have experience a difficult delivery in the past.

Dr. Sidani explains, “I see many patients who have been suffering in silence for a long time. They are simply too embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their symptoms with anyone. But nowadays we have access to effective treatments, so it is important to talk to your doctor – it could greatly improve quality of life.”

Initial treatment can involve simple lifestyle changes. Adding more fiber to the diet can help, cutting out caffeine, or cutting out certain medications which are causing bowel problems.

Dr. Sidani notes that further medical or surgical options are available. “Medication can help decrease incidence of diarrhea and physical therapy can provide some benefits. Alternatively, minimally invasive surgical options can offer life-changing results. There are several types of procedure which act to repair or alter the sphincter to make fecal incontinence less frequent.

“One of our most impactful procedures is sacral neuromodulation (SNM), a technique in which a small device is implanted under the skin to stimulate the nerves responsible for bowel control. This technique dramatically improves symptoms in 90% of patients and removes them altogether in 40% of cases”.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers a full anorectal physiology laboratory and physical therapy services, dedicated to treating patients with fecal incontinence. The center offers a comfortable and discreet setting within which each individual patient’s needs are assessed. Doctors, including a female colorectal surgeon, are trained in the latest treatments, including SNM, to effectively reduce the negative impact that accidental bowel leakage can have on quality of life.

Dr. Sidani adds, “Patients shouldn’t suffer alone. I encourage anyone who is affected by bowel control problems to talk to their doctor – there is lots we can do to help you.”