Faecal incontinence
Bowel incontinence
A common condition affecting around one in 10 people at some point in their life
About faecal incontinence
Faecal incontinence is a very distressing condition that tends to effect the elderly. However, it can affect younger patients and in particular women following difficult obstetric deliveries. Our consultants can diagnose and treat the condition.
Need to know
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Symptoms of bowel incontinence icon plus
Symptoms may include:
- A sudden urge to defecate that you can't control
- Soiling yourself without realising you needed to go to the toilet
- Passing a piece of faeces when passing wind
These symptoms may affect your daily life and routine, for example going on public transport or socialising. They may happen every day or from time to time.
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Diagnosis icon plus
Your consultant will investigate the function of the nerves and muscles in your anus to identify the likely causes of your faecal incontinence. This will help them to develop a management plan. -
Potential bowel incontinence treatment options icon plus
Common treatments include:
- lifestyle and dietary changes
- exercise programmes to strengthen the muscles in your rectum and anus
- medication to control the symptoms of constipation and/or diarrhoea
- surgery to treat the known cause treatments can lead to you maintaining normal bowel function throughout your life
Our consultants
Our locations
From complex gastric surgery to test and diagnostic procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344