Bowel Incontinence Loss of bowel control “My father was so embarrassed and worried about soiling himself, he refused to leave the house. We finally managed to persuade him to see a doctor and were surprised to find out it was caused by constipation. He has been on treatment since, and things are nearly back to normal. It’s so good to see him enjoying life again!”
What is it? Bowel incontinence is a loss of bowel control, resulting in accidental soiling. What problems can it cause? • Feelings of shame, anger and loneliness. • Skin irritation and broken skin (sores) on the buttocks and anus, if the skin is in constant contact with watery stools.
Who does it affect? • Men and women of all ages. • More common among the elderly. What causes it? • Severe constipation where the hardened stool blocking the lowest part of the large bowel (rectum) - liquid bowel contents leak past the solid stools. • Diarrhoea. • Weak or damaged muscle. • Nerve damage. • Using laxatives over a long period of time.