Am I a Candidate for Gallbladder Surgery?
Gallbladder surgery is a major procedure, but with our laparoscopic techniques, many people are fantastic candidates for this treatment, which can help end gallstone pain.
4 Common Treatments for Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is often embarrassing to discuss, and because of this, many people don’t seek help for the issue. However, there are a number of treatments that can allow you to manage and even reverse fecal incontinence altogether. That’s why we always recommend reaching out for a problem such as this.
At Boca Care Surgical Associates, we want our patients to feel both supported and informed. Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS, will provide you with the best options for treating your fecal incontinence, as well as insight into why the condition occurs. But let’s discuss the thing you most want to find out: what are the best, most common treatments for this issue?
4 common treatments for fecal incontinence
Fecal incontinence is a problem that occurs when you’re unable to control your bowel movements. You may experience stool leakage when participating in strenuous activity or simply during everyday activities. As this can be embarrassing, many people keep it to themselves, but this can prevent you from trying the available treatment options.
Many of these treatments are easy to try out and can even make a difference with little to no medical intervention. Still, fecal incontinence can result from weak muscles in the sphincter, which may require more intensive intervention. Whatever the case, it’s essential to consult a provider like Dr. Belizon and to explore your various treatment options.
1. Dietary changes
Sometimes, simply changing your diet can make a significant difference in addressing this problem. Certain foods, such as greasy items, hot or spicy items, or dairy, can make it more difficult for your body to manage issues of fecal incontinence. Cutting out some or all of these foods can really help.
Additionally, replacing these with foods high in fiber can also benefit you. Items containing whole grains can be extremely helpful. You’ll want to aim for about 30 grams of fiber each day. If you’re unable to achieve this through your diet alone, consider taking supplements, but first consult with your healthcare provider.
2. Exercises
There are certain exercises you can do every day to strengthen the muscles of your sphincter and your pelvic floor. The exercises you do will depend on your specific situation, but strengthening weakened muscles can be very helpful this way.
Additionally, it enables you to gain a deeper understanding of how your muscles function and respond. For example, if you’re struggling to recognize when your body needs to make a bowel movement, these exercises can help.
3. Medications and supplements
Certain medications and supplements may be recommended as a treatment for fecal incontinence. We’ve already discussed fiber supplements, which can be easily taken as a powder or pill. However, sometimes a different type of medication can be extremely helpful in addressing this issue.
Those who suffer from fecal incontinence don’t always have diarrhea. In fact, some people who have constipation can experience this issue. If this is the case, you may be prescribed laxatives to treat the underlying problem. Otherwise, an anti-diarrhea medicine might be a better fit. This requires a doctor’s visit so you can determine which medication is best suited to your situation.
4. Surgery
If none of these options are helping, or if your provider determines that you have significant muscle damage that requires surgical repair, you might need to prepare yourself for this option. Fortunately, the surgery is minimally invasive and will be much easier on your body than it was in previous years.
Surgery is used to repair the damaged muscles, and afterward, you may benefit from a high-fiber diet, anal or pelvic floor exercises, or one of the other common treatment options listed above. All in all, this surgery has helped so many people achieve a better quality of life after dealing with fecal incontinence.
There are many ways to treat this condition
You don’t have to live with fecal incontinence, so don’t let your fear of asking for help get in your way. Let us support you throughout this treatment and recovery process, whatever it entails.
Visit us online, or make an appointment at our Boca Raton, FL, office today! We look forward to meeting you and helping you feel like your best self.
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