Foods to Avoid
If you have bowel incontinence, it's important to be aware of certain foods that can aggravate the condition. Some foods that have been known to worsen symptoms of bowel incontinence include those that are high in fat, spicy, or fried. These foods can cause irritation to the intestines and can lead to increased episodes of incontinence. Other foods to avoid include dairy products, alcohol, and caffeine.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to avoiding certain foods, you should also consider making some lifestyle changes if you have bowel incontinence. Increasing your physical activity can help to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which can help with the control of your bowel movements. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids can help to prevent dehydration and can help to keep your stools soft and easier to pass. Quitting smoking can also help, as smoking can irritate the digestive system.
Medications
There are certain medications that can help to reduce the symptoms of bowel incontinence. These medications work by either relaxing the muscles of the intestines, increasing the strength of the muscles of the sphincter, or decreasing the amount of fluid in the stool. Your doctor can help you to determine which medication is best for you.
Medical Procedures
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat bowel incontinence. There are several different types of surgery that can be used to treat the condition, depending on the severity of the symptoms. These procedures can include nerve stimulation, sphincter repair, or the implantation of a device to help control the sphincter muscles. Your doctor can help you to determine the best option for your situation.