Fecal Incontinence

[confused703]

I'm a healthy 45 years old man, a few weeks ago I was out having dinner with a friend, I did not have a lot to eat, and I was feeling great. So we decided to go out for drinks as we were walking, I felt this urge that I needed to find a toilet immediately, so I left my friend behind and disappeared in search of a public restroom, within minutes I found one, but it was too late, I could not hold it in, I have never been this embarrassed in my life ,it's a good thing I had a change of clothes in the car.

How can this happen? I'm 45 years old and Healthy, this was the first time it ever happened to me.

Until again today, this time I'm at home and I did not have time to reach the restroom, it seems to be getting worst, I'm now afraid to go out in public.

Where did this come from? What is the cause? But most importantly what do I need to do to stop this?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There are several potential causes for the incontinence.

Various types of infections are possible, along with malabsorption or inflammatory bowel disease.  More uncommonly, but still possible, is cancer - which can cause any sustained change in bowel movements.

I would send the stool off for culture and analysis.

A colonoscopy would be a good idea.  This can exclude anatomical causes, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/KevinMD
Facebook.com/KevinMDblog

[aar1151]

I have had ulcerative colitus for many years; when I am stressed I don't always make it to the bathroom.  Last April I had my gall bladder removed and surgery for acid reflux at the same time.  Ever since I've had the same thing happen to me almost on a daily basis.  I recently had a colonoscopy and it doesn't look bad at all.  Even my meds aren't doing much for me.  Both my gastroenterologist and I are wondering what is going on.   The surgeon said removing my gall bladder might cause this problem for a few days and then should  I should go back to "normal".  I have two friends (younger than me)  that have had gall bladder surgery recently and are now suffering from diarrhea.  I now keep a change of pants, towel and washcloth in my car at all times;  and I have resorted to wearing "diapers" when I feel it may be a long day if I have to leave the house.  Only someone who lives like this can understand how  icky you feel.   I hope someone from this forum can help you.  Good luck.  aar1151

[confused703]

Thank you for your message, I Could never imagine this happening to anyone, I sure hope I can find a physician that will find the cause.