All About Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence, also known as bowel incontinence, is an involuntary unexpected leakage of liquid stool. Some of the more common causes of this condition include diarrhea, constipation, a tear or separation of the anal sphincter, and muscle or nerve damage. It can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in women (as a result of childbirth) and adults over the age of 65. It is estimated that approximately 40-50% of women report fecal incontinence after vaginal delivery, and about 45% of nursing home residents suffer from this condition.