What are the main Causes of Faecal Incontinence?

Faecal incontinence is a condition characterised by the involuntary leakage of stool. It can be a cause of great embarrassment and social isolation, and can have a significant impact on quality of life. There are many potential causes of faecal incontinence, but the most common include anal sphincter damage, constipation, and diarrhoea. Let's take a closer look at each of these in turn

There are many different things that can cause dermatitis. In some cases, it may be due to an allergic reaction to a particular substance. In other cases, it may be caused by an irritant, such as harsh chemicals or detergents. It is also possible for certain medical conditions to cause dermatitis. For example, people with diabetes are more prone to developing a type of dermatitis called diabetic dermopathy.

The anal sphincter is a ring of muscle that keeps the anus closed. This muscle can be damaged by childbirth, surgery, or trauma, which can lead to faecal incontinence. This type of damage is often seen in women who have had obstetric anal sphincter lacerations (OASIS) during childbirth. Although the majority of OASIS heal without any long-term problems, around 10-20% will go on to develop faecal incontinence

Constipation is another common cause of faecal incontinence. When stool becomes hard and dry, it can be difficult to control bowel movements. This can lead to small amounts of leakage or soiling as the hardened stool passes through the anal sphincter. In severe cases, constipation can also cause large amounts of leakage when the hard stool stretches or tears the anal sphincter.

Diarrhoea is usually caused by an infection or intolerance to certain foods. It can also be a side effect of certain medications. Diarrhoea can lead to faecal incontinence if there is not enough time to get to the toilet before stool is passed. Diarrhoea can also cause anal sphincter damage if it is severe and persistent

There are many potential causes of faecal incontinence, but the most common include anal sphincter damage, constipation, and diarrhoea. If you are experiencing involuntary leakage of stool, it is important to see your doctor so that they can investigate the cause and recommend treatment options. With proper treatment, many people with faecal incontinence are able to live normal, active lives.