Urge incontinence is a distressing condition that can significantly affect an individual’s daily life. The inability to control bowel movements can lead to embarrassment, discomfort, and a reduced quality of life.
What is faecal incontinence?
Urge incontinence, also known as fecal incontinence, is characterized by the involuntary loss of control over bowel movements. It is often associated with a sudden and strong urge to defecate, which can be challenging or impossible to resist. This condition can significantly impact an individual’s physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Recognizing the Signs of Urge Incontinence:
- Frequent or unpredictable bowel movements
- Sudden urges to defecate without warning
- Inability to reach the bathroom in time
- Leakage of stool or mucus from the rectum
- Feelings of urgency or an intense need to evacuate the bowels
- Anxiety or embarrassment about potential accidents
It is important to note that the severity and frequency of these symptoms may vary from person to person. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
Possible Causes of Urge Incontinence:
There are various factors that can contribute to the development of urge incontinence. These include:
- Muscle or nerve damage: Damage to the muscles or nerves involved in bowel control can disrupt normal functioning and lead to urge incontinence.
- Chronic constipation: Long-term constipation can weaken the muscles and nerves in the rectum, making it difficult to control bowel movements.
- Neurological disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal cord injuries can affect the nerves responsible for bowel control, resulting in urge incontinence.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction: Weakness or dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles can impact bowel control and contribute to urge incontinence.
- Psychological factors: Emotional stress, anxiety, or depression can worsen symptoms of urge incontinence and make management more challenging.
Treatment Options for Urge Incontinence:
Successfully managing urge incontinence requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and focuses on improving bowel control. Here are some common treatment options and strategies:
Medications:
- Antidiarrheal medications: These medications can help regulate bowel movements and reduce urgency and frequency.
- Stool bulking agents: Fiber supplements or certain medications can help add bulk to the stool, making it easier to control.
- Nerve stimulants: Medications that stimulate the nerves responsible for bowel control may be prescribed in some cases.
Behavioral Techniques:
- Bladder training: Gradually increasing the intervals between bathroom visits can help retrain the bladder and reduce the frequency of urges.
- Bowel habit training: Establishing a regular routine for bowel movements can improve control and minimize accidents.
- Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels can enhance bowel control.
Dietary Modifications:
- Increasing fiber intake: Consuming a diet rich in fiber can promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation or diarrhea.
- Avoiding trigger foods: Certain foods and beverages, such as caffeine or spicy foods, may worsen symptoms and should be avoided.
Invasive Procedures and Surgical Interventions:
In severe cases or when other treatment methods are ineffective, invasive procedures or surgical interventions may be considered. These options aim to restore normal bowel function and improve control.
Emsella
it is a non-invasive and painless procedure, meaning that there is no downtime required. The treatment can also provide long-lasting results, restore self-confidence, and improve general quality of life. Additionally, EMSella is also a safer alternative to other invasive procedures that may come with risks.
What to Expect During Emsella Treatment
The EMSella technology is a non-invasive treatment for urge and faecal incontinence. It uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic waves to activate the pelvic floor muscles, which are responsible for controlling bowel and bladder movements. The technology also helps patients improve muscle strength, increase endurance, and tighten the pelvic muscle for better bladder and bowel control.
The EMSella treatment chair, which has become increasingly popular in recent years, is FDA-approved and consists of a unique electromagnetic coil that sits at the base of a regular chair. A patient sits fully clothed on the chair for about 30 minutes while the electromagnetic waves work on the muscles deep inside the pelvis.
In simple terms, the chair sends 11,000 contractions per session, creating a buzz-like feeling in the pelvic floor muscles. While sitting in the chair, the patient does not need to do anything, and there is no pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Urge and Faecal Incontinence Treatment
Urge incontinence can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. However, with proper understanding, evaluation, and a comprehensive treatment plan, it is possible to regain control and improve quality of life. From behavioral techniques and medications to dietary modifications and surgical interventions, there are various strategies available to manage urge incontinence effectively. Remember, seeking professional guidance from healthcare providers is crucial for personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. At Incontinence Blog, we strive to provide valuable information and support for individuals living with urge incontinence, helping them navigate their journey toward improved control and overall well-being.
