Fecal incontinence (the inability to control bowel movements) is a distressing condition that can affect your quality of life, emotional well-being, and social confidence. While it can happen at any age, it becomes more common as you grow older or experience conditions that affect the pelvic floor. At Piedmont Colorectal Associates in Atlanta, accurate diagnosis is the first step toward meaningful relief. Understanding how our talented specialists identify the root cause of fecal incontinence is key to creating a targeted and effective treatment plan.
Why an Accurate Diagnosis Is Essential
Fecal incontinence can result from a variety of underlying issues, including weakened pelvic muscles, nerve damage, scarring from surgery, childbirth trauma, inflammatory bowel disease, or radiation therapy. Each cause requires a different approach to treatment. Without a proper diagnosis, care may be incomplete or ineffective, leading to continued embarrassment and frustration.
An accurate diagnosis ensures that the cause is treated, not just the symptoms. It also helps specialists determine whether conservative therapies like physical therapy may be sufficient, or if advanced surgical or neuromodulation options are needed.
How Colorectal Specialists Evaluate Fecal Incontinence
To understand what’s driving incontinence, colorectal specialists use a combination of:
- Medical history and symptom review: You are asked about their bowel habits, onset of symptoms, dietary triggers, previous surgeries, childbirth history, and more.
- Physical examination: A gentle rectal exam checks for muscle tone, nerve response, and structural abnormalities like hemorrhoids, fissures, or prolapse.
Depending on findings, specialists may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- Anorectal Manometry
This test measures how well the rectum and anal sphincter muscles are functioning. A small, flexible catheter is inserted into the rectum to assess muscle strength, coordination, and sensation. - Endoanal Ultrasound
This imaging test visualizes the muscles surrounding the anal canal. It can detect tears, thinning, or scarring in the sphincter muscles, which is particularly helpful after childbirth-related injuries. - MRI Defecography or Traditional Defecography
These advanced imaging studies examine how the pelvic floor and rectum function during the process of defecation. They help identify structural issues like rectocele or rectal prolapse. - Nerve Testing (EMG)
Electromyography can be used to assess nerve supply to the anal sphincter, helping to pinpoint nerve-related causes of incontinence.
Get Expert Help for Long-Term Relief
If you’re struggling with fecal incontinence, know that help is available—and diagnosis is the first step toward recovery. At Piedmont Colorectal Associates, our experienced team offers advanced diagnostics and personalized care to restore comfort and control.
Contact us today in Atlanta, GA at (404) 351-7900 or schedule your consultation online to take the first step toward lasting relief.