Hi.
This problem started when I was 13 years old and I am now 23. I have had intermittent flatal incontinence which I think may be related to periods of stress or anxiety, which is only exacerbated further by the incontinence, thus creating a cycle.
The problem is this:
I pass foul smelling gas without feeling it, with no warning, with no urge to pass gas, and always when not expecting to.
It usually happens in public places which makes it worse.
It is always silent buy foul smelling.
It is definitely me (sometimes happens when noone else is around)
It is not in my head (other people can smell it), though it may be a physical reaction to anxiety.
It does not seem to matter whether I have firm or loose stools.
It is not TMAU (not coming out of my skin).
It comes in wafts sporadically throughout a day, then maybe won't happen again for a couple of days.
The problem can disappear for months at a time and then return.
It seems to happen more often when I have immediately eaten something very sugary of high in carbs, e.g. cake, or potatoes, but still happens regardless of what I eat.
It seems to happen more often when I am hot and sweaty.
It is absolutely not in my head. I am not paranoid - this is real.
I have tried cutting out common gas-producing foods and drinks.
Because it is intermittent, I don't believe it has anything to do with the tone of my anus (it is not loose).
Alongside this, which might be related to it, I suffer from random attacks of strong bladder pain after defacating, or ejaculating, which can only be stopped by direct heat on my belly.
I also recently developed a condition where urine dribbles from my penis, a few minutes after urinating, to the point where it wets my underwear.
As a result of the incontinence, I have had bouts of depression, anxiety, agoraphobia, suicidal thoughts, nervousness.
I work as a teacher, and thus feel anxious that it might happen during a class (which it sometimes does).
I literally don't know what to do about this, or what is causing it to happen.
If anybody has ANY ideas about what this could be, or what is causing it, or what sort of specialist I need to see, please let me know as I just don't think I can cope with this for much longer. I feel like it is taking away my happiness and ruining my life.
Thank you so much,
C.