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Fecal Incontinence

At GastroDoxs in Katy, we provide compassionate, expert management of fecal incontinence through comprehensive, personalized treatment plans and state-of-the-art advanced therapies, helping local patients regain confidence, improve bowel control, and enhance their daily comfort and lasting quality of life.

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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Fecal Incontinence?

Fecal incontinence means you may not always have full control over your bowels, leading to accidental stool leakage. It can range from a small stain to a complete bowel movement. While it can affect anyone, it's more common in older adults and women after childbirth. The good news: it's often treatable with the right care.

Common Symptoms

You may notice one or more of these signs:

  • Unexpected stool leaks without warning
  • Strong, hard-to-control urges to go
  • Difficulty holding in gas
  • Skin irritation or soreness around the anus
  • Use of pads or adult diapers to stay clean

Causes

Several factors can contribute to fecal incontinence:

  • Anal sphincter muscle damage from childbirth
  • Nerve injury due to diabetes, trauma, or surgery
  • Loose stools from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
  • Age-related weakening of pelvic floor muscles
  • Surgery or radiation treatment in the rectal area
  • Cognitive issues such as dementia or memory loss
Treatment

Treatment Options for Fecal Incontinence in Katy

Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical care:

  • Diet with more fiber: Eating high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps bulk and firm your stools for better control.
  • Pelvic floor exercises: Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support bowel continence and improve squeeze pressure.
  • Biofeedback therapy: Specialized training using sensors to teach you how to coordinate and strengthen pelvic muscles.
  • Medications: Stool-firming agents (e.g., loperamide) and bulking supplements can reduce urgency and leakage.
  • Injectable bulking agents: Injections around the anal canal help the sphincter close more effectively.
  • Surgical interventions: Procedures such as sphincter repair, sacral nerve stimulation or other corrective surgeries for severe muscle damage.
  • Management of related conditions: Optimizing care for IBS, diabetes or neurological disorders to support nerve and muscle function.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs in Katy, we combine expert knowledge in fecal incontinence management with compassionate, patient-focused care. From personalized treatment plans to the latest therapies, our team is dedicated to restoring your confidence and comfort. Don't let accidental leaks control your life-book your appointment today and take the first step toward long-term relief.

1.4K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.4K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for fecal incontinence?

The ICD-10 codes for fecal incontinence range from R15.0 (incontinence of solid stool) through R15.9 (unspecified fecal incontinence), with specific subcodes reflecting symptom severity and frequency.

Can exercises help improve fecal incontinence?

Yes. Pelvic floor exercises-often called Kegels-can strengthen the muscles that control bowel movements and reduce accidental leaks over time.

Can IBS cause bowel leaks?

Yes. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may lead to loose or urgent stools, increasing the risk of accidental leaks if control is compromised.

What treatments help after childbirth?

Postpartum pelvic rehabilitation, gentle pelvic floor exercises, and physical therapy can promote healing of childbirth-related muscle damage and improve continence.

Can diabetes lead to fecal incontinence?

Yes. Nerve damage (neuropathy) from poorly controlled diabetes can impair rectal sensation and muscle coordination, leading to incontinence.

Can I treat both urinary and fecal leaks at the same time?

Yes. Many rehabilitation plans, including pelvic floor therapy and biofeedback, address both urinary and fecal incontinence simultaneously for comprehensive control.

Does age make fecal incontinence worse?

Age related weakening of pelvic muscles and changes in nerve function can increase the likelihood and severity of incontinence as you grow older.

What helps manage fecal incontinence during pregnancy?

Gentle pelvic floor exercises, dietary fiber adjustments, and proper hydration can support muscle strength and regulate stools throughout pregnancy.

Are adult diapers the only solution for fecal incontinence?

No. While pads or diapers offer short-term protection, long-term strategies-like diet changes, exercises, medications, and procedures-aim to restore control.

How do I find a fecal incontinence specialist in Katy?

Contact GastroDoxs in Katy to schedule an evaluation. Our gastroenterologist will assess your needs, review treatment options, and develop a personalized care plan.

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