There are a number of medical conditions that feel embarrassing to talk to our doctors about, so much so that we choose to live with them — or even completely ignore them — rather than speak up. Fecal incontinence may seem like an issue you have under control, but it’s important not to ignore it. In most cases, it will only get worse.
Boca Care Surgical Associates offers a range of treatments for fecal incontinence, including surgical options. After an initial diagnostic appointment, our provider, Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS, will determine which treatment option best suits your needs, based on your unique situation and whether your fecal incontinence is a symptom of another issue.
Sometimes, people assume that fecal incontinence is only a problem if it causes uncontrolled bowel movements before you can get to the toilet. But the truth is, there are many forms it can take. For example, it might start out as an inability to control passing gas or leaking stool and/or mucus while sleeping.
In other cases, it can involve soiling oneself before getting to the bathroom. But know that the problem probably won’t go away on its own. In fact, it’s usually the sign of a medical condition that requires treatment. While it’s extremely embarrassing for many people, hiding it will only make the matter worse. Instead, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
You may be ignoring this issue to save yourself the embarrassment, but truly, consider that your struggle with fecal incontinence isn’t just inconvenient. It may also be a symptom of another serious problem.
For example, having constant diarrhea or constipation can weaken the muscles of the sphincter, leading to bowel incontinence. If you deal with consistent problems like these when using the bathroom, you may be building up an issue that causes fecal incontinence without even realizing it. Before you know it, you may have a more serious issue on your hands.
Other problems with the rectum, such as rectal prolapse or hemorrhoids, can also lead to fecal incontinence. It can even be a symptom of a tumor growing in this area. Previous damage to the rectum during childbirth can also cause this problem. And finally, some people dealing with emotional disturbances may find that they experience incontinence as a result.
Don’t suffer in silence with this condition; come to our clinic for help. One of the first ways we’ll be able to assist you is to discuss the problem and any other symptoms you may have. Then, Dr. Belizon will likely perform a quick exam. We may need to order additional tests if he suspects another problem is causing your incontinence.
Once we’ve diagnosed the problem, we’ll be able to give you some answers about why this is happening and how it can be treated. In many cases, dietary changes, medications, and exercises can help strengthen the bowels and improve your ability to hold your stool.
However, you may need surgery if you’re dealing with severely damaged muscles in your sphincter, a tumor, or another type of problem. If this is the case, Dr. Belizon will walk you through what to expect from your surgery, including how long the recovery will take and which habits you may need to change going forward to support your bowel health.
The problem rarely, if ever, goes away on its own and is very likely connected to a deeper issue. If you ignore it, you’ll only experience worse symptoms down the road. That’s why we urge you to reach out for help. Don’t worry about being embarrassed; all we want is for you to feel better.
To make an appointment at our Boca Raton, FL, office, call us now or book online.
