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| Dianna Malkowski |
by Dianna Malkowski, Physician Assistant & Nutritionist
In recognition of IBS Awareness Month, read on for three
steps toward successfully treating and managing incontinence caused by
irritable bowel syndrome.
The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal
Disorders (IFFGD) designates April as IBS Awareness Month. IBS is estimated to
affect 9 to 23 percent of the world’s population, according to IFFGD, yet many
remain undiagnosed.
There are several reasons
IBS goes undiagnosed, including the condition being misinterpreted as
aging-related changes and difficulty discussing such a personal topic with
caregivers.
Incontinence can be an effect of IBS. While diarrhea can
contribute to bowel incontinence, constipation can lead to urinary
incontinence, because of the pressure put on the bladder by impacted stool. In
cases of IBS-related incontinence, it’s imperative to first manage irritable
bowel syndrome. Here are three steps toward a successful outcome:
1. Because IBS symptoms can range from mild to severe, it’s
important to learn about the condition. Symptoms — which often occur after
eating — include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and
passing mucus. In addition to physical symptoms, some individuals experience
depression and anxiety.
While IBS can cause incontinence and/or severe discomfort,
it does not permanently harm the intestines or lead to serious diseases like
cancer, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
(NDDIC).
2. IBS is diagnosed based on patterns rather than standard
tests, so it’s helpful to keep a record of symptoms to discuss with a doctor.
IFFGD recommends keeping a diary for one to two weeks to identify factors that
cause or worsen symptoms.
The diary approach also is used to achieve better
outcomes in treating incontinence. An IBS food journal will include noting
foods and beverages that worsen symptoms, as well as a record of liquid intake
and bathroom habits.
Visit IFFGD to learn more about IBS and download a free
informational packet.
3. IBS often can be managed through diet, stress reduction
and/or medications. For the best results, treatment goals should be discussed with
a doctor, who will help develop a plan appropriate for the patient and explore
options for managing severe pain if needed. When necessary, a doctor or
nutritionist will create an eating plan to gradually increase fiber while
successfully managing urinary or bowel incontinence.
Individuals who experience temporary or long-term urinary or
bowel leakage can manage their condition with products made for incontinence.
Options include disposable or reusable absorbent undergarments, skin care
products that protect against exposure to moisture, reusable swim pants for all
ages, underpads for bed and furniture, and more. It’s important to work with an
experienced online retailer that provides one-on-one customer service and the
opportunity to try samples before buying.
Explore our site to learn more about
incontinence, use the free Incontinence Product Finder tool and access more
than 1,500 caregiver resource links. Or simply call a product
specialist at 1-800-985-1353 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Central Standard Time.
Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant
and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound
healing, therapeutic diets and nutrition support. She serves on the board of
professional advisers for The CareGiver Partnership and enjoys working with
patients and caregivers alike. Ask Dianna a question.
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