Fecal incontinence: What helps?

Posted by jenweb @jenweb, Jul 14, 2022

History of fecal incontinence due to sphincter muscle no longer functioning, caused by forceps delivery, menopause and age. have tried SNS implant, not successful and removed. I am 70 years old and have also tried kegels, acupuncture, diet. IBS symptoms of diarrhea. Have tried diet changes, giving up gluten and lactose, no response.
Has anyone had any similar issues with any successful results? This has been going on for 15 years and I am very frustrated and not ready to wear an adult diaper, as I lead a very active lifestyle.

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Profile picture for baz @baz

When did you have your prolapse surgery? Was it laparoscopic? I had one 7 weeks ago and still have some pain in my belly area and hoping it’s not adhesions. The fecal incontinence has not gotten better and the surgeon wants to do the nerve stimulator. Please let me know if you find something that works.

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I had prolapse surgery - Colpoclesi - last fall. It was a vaginal surgery. I have had some discomfort from the bladder sling and the surgeon said that unfortunately that happens. It was done to prevent bladder leakage and it has worked.

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I am experiencing similar difficulties. What are the surgical options? I’ve reached out to Mayo Clinic this week; am hoping to hear from them. I’d like to know if you’ve made any progress since your last post

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I had surgery to repair an anal fistula in 1988. I was told by a doctor years later that I had what is a keyhole anal diformity, most likely do to the surgery. On occasion, when I have a strong urge to have a bowel movement, I cannot hold it for more than a minute or two. This is an infrequent occurrence. I have learned to clean myself out before leaving my home so I will not have the need to go. Needless to say this can cause major issues when away from a bathroom. I find that taking 1 or 2 immodium tablets prevents the urgency. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

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Profile picture for nsgaston @nsgaston

I had surgery to repair an anal fistula in 1988. I was told by a doctor years later that I had what is a keyhole anal diformity, most likely do to the surgery. On occasion, when I have a strong urge to have a bowel movement, I cannot hold it for more than a minute or two. This is an infrequent occurrence. I have learned to clean myself out before leaving my home so I will not have the need to go. Needless to say this can cause major issues when away from a bathroom. I find that taking 1 or 2 immodium tablets prevents the urgency. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

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I started having issues after radiation treatments for bladder cancer, destroyed my intestines,also created several blockages. Ended up with colostomy, tried every type and strength of anti-diarrhea meds. Nothing helped. Extreme treatment but at least, not messing myself and never knowing when or where it would happen! Can at least leave the house now. That was 14 yrs ago, still have diarrhea and taking excessive meds. No relief but the stools are contained in a pouch not my pants! Best wishes, I feel your pain! I’m now 72 yrs old female

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Profile picture for nsgaston @nsgaston

I had surgery to repair an anal fistula in 1988. I was told by a doctor years later that I had what is a keyhole anal diformity, most likely do to the surgery. On occasion, when I have a strong urge to have a bowel movement, I cannot hold it for more than a minute or two. This is an infrequent occurrence. I have learned to clean myself out before leaving my home so I will not have the need to go. Needless to say this can cause major issues when away from a bathroom. I find that taking 1 or 2 immodium tablets prevents the urgency. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

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Maybe physical therapy to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles?

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Profile picture for sassy26 @sassy26

I started having issues after radiation treatments for bladder cancer, destroyed my intestines,also created several blockages. Ended up with colostomy, tried every type and strength of anti-diarrhea meds. Nothing helped. Extreme treatment but at least, not messing myself and never knowing when or where it would happen! Can at least leave the house now. That was 14 yrs ago, still have diarrhea and taking excessive meds. No relief but the stools are contained in a pouch not my pants! Best wishes, I feel your pain! I’m now 72 yrs old female

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@sassy26

I appreciate your response.

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Profile picture for fergalicious @fergalicious

Maybe physical therapy to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles?

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@fergalicious

Thank you for the suggestion!

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Profile picture for nsgaston @nsgaston

I had surgery to repair an anal fistula in 1988. I was told by a doctor years later that I had what is a keyhole anal diformity, most likely do to the surgery. On occasion, when I have a strong urge to have a bowel movement, I cannot hold it for more than a minute or two. This is an infrequent occurrence. I have learned to clean myself out before leaving my home so I will not have the need to go. Needless to say this can cause major issues when away from a bathroom. I find that taking 1 or 2 immodium tablets prevents the urgency. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

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Pelvic floor PT was and is very helpful for me. It is commonly prescribed for prolapse after surgery or giving birth, ED, cycling injuries, and other. I have collagenous colitis (10 years) and was on Budesonide for a year due to flares; controlled now with diet, exercise, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. https://www.drugs.com/sfx/imodium-side-effects.html

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