New wrinkle - Fecal Incontinence

It's been a while since I've been on Healing Well. I guess you could attribute it to the fact that I've been able to keep my UC under control with Lialda, Humira, Metamucil and (sometimes) eating properly.

Recently, I've become aware of a new wrinkle in the UC family: fecal incontinence. If you're not familiar with what I'll call FI, it's "leakage" of a bowel movement....similar to bladder incontinence which requires disposable underwear and pads....same thing with FI only it's messier.

I haven't called my GI doctor yet, I'm avoiding it in the hopes that I could handle this on my own. (I'm afraid he'll want to do a colonoscopy). I've consumed Immodium,(both pills and liquid), Pepto Bismal, Metamucil and Kaopectate and still haven't been able to stop it. I know that certain foods like chocolate, coffee, spicey meals,milk, and some fried foods will increase the urgency.

I guess after all this history, I should get down to my reason for sending out this post: Is there anyone out there who has dealt with fecal incontinence and found a way to eliminate it or get it under control. I appreciate any suggestions anyone may have. Thanks

I'm on Lialda,4/day; Humira, 40mg/every 2 wks; metamucil, 4 mg, 5 capsules/day. It's been 2-3 yrs since I had my last colonoscopy. I'm 82 and I've heard that drs don't like to give them to the elderly (?)

In females the levator ani muscle group (pelvic floor) can weaken with age, from pregnancies, or trans-abdominal surgery, which can lead to bladder or fecal incontinence. It would be best for you to discuss your problem with both a gynecologist and gastroenterologist. Barring disease or pathogen problems, you could likely benefit from some relatively gentle, age-friendly physical therapy if those doctors agree. Look up the Kegel (muscle contraction) exercise then see if you can do it; if not-- that's an indicator of basic muscle weakness that can cause both types of incontinence. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help from reliable doctors about that problem-- the middle-aged & older should be well aware of it. / Old Hat (40+ yrs with left-sided UC; in remission taking Colazal)

Using PeptoB, Immodium, or Kaopectate definitely can cause you more harm than good if muscle weakness is the problem. In females (I repeat) the Kegel exercise is key to DXing bladder and/or fecal incontinence cause(s). Blood, urine, & stool tests may also be needed if you haven't done them lately, but other than the simple manometry Garyi mentioned above, you're unlikely to require more elaborate manipulation other than scoping at this point. *** Take good care (you need to eat well REGULARLY to maintain muscle strength) & let us know how you're faring. / Old Hat (40+ yrs with left-sided UC; presently in remission taking Colazal)