Diagnosis of Faecal Incontinence

Diagnosis for Faecal Incontinence

Anal manometry : This test is done to assess the tightness of the anal sphincter and to measure the sensitivity and function of the rectum. 

Anorectal ultrasonography : This procedure evaluates the structure of the anal sphincter. 

Proctography or defecography : This test measures how much stool can be accommodated in the rectum and also evaluates the process of stool evacuation from the rectum. 

Proctosigmoidoscopy : In this procedure the rectum and sigmoid colon are viewed. Inflammation, tumours or scar tissue that may be causing faecal incontinence can be detected by this procedure. 

Anal electromyography and nerve conduction studies : These tests assess nerve and muscle dysfunction. 

Treatment for Faecal Incontinence

As faecal incontinence can be distressing, it's important to take steps to deal with it. Treatment can help in the improvement of quality of life. Treatment for faecal incontinence can usually restore bowel control and substantially reduce the severity of the condition. 

Dietary changes : 

A diet that helps in the formation of proper stool consistency is advised. Increased of fibres in the diet is the mainstay of dietary changes. In chronic constipation it is advised to drink plenty of fluids and eat fibre-rich foods. In diarrhoea also, it is advised to increase the intake of high-fibre foods to add bulk to the stools, making them less watery. 

Medications for Faecal Incontinence

Anti diarrhoeal drugs : To reduce diarrhoea, drugs that decrease the bowel motility or mediations that decrease the water content of the stool are advised. 

Laxatives : Use of mild laxatives to restore normal bowel movements. 

Stool softeners : To prevent stool impaction. 

Bowel Training for Faecal Incontinence

If faecal incontinence is due to a lack of anal sphincter control or decreased awareness of the urge to defecate, then bowel training programme and pelvic muscle exercises will improve the condition. In bowel training:

1. The patient is advised to go to the toilet at a specific time every day. 
2. Bio-feedback is used. Good results have been reported with bio-feedback training. In successful cases, patients regain complete control over defecation, or at least improve their control, by learning to contract the external part of the anal sphincter whenever stools enter the rectum. Bio-feedback training begins with the insertion into the rectum of a balloon manometry device hooked to a pressure monitor. The presence of stools in the rectum is simulated by inflating the balloon, which causes pressure changes that are recorded on the monitor. The monitor also records sphincter contraction. By watching the monitor and following instructions from the equipment operator, patients gradually learn to contract the sphincter automatically in response to fullness in the rectum. 

Faecal Incontinence
Causes, Signs and Symptoms for Faecal Incontinence
Diagnosis of Faecal Incontinence
Surgical Options for Faecal Incontinence