Anal incontinence and evacuation difficulties

Abstract

Many patients with fecal incontinence (FI), anal incontinence (AI), which includes loss of flatus or mucus, or evacuation difficulties can be helped by conservative measures.1,2 This often involves several different elements, rather than a single definitive intervention, and in clinical practice it makes sense to combine approaches in a retraining program to maximize patient benefit. Uncomplicated mild-to-moderate constipation will often respond to simple measures, such as a regular habit, increasing fiber and fluid intake, and getting more exercise, which should always be tried first. Anal incontinence will likewise often improve with attention to diet, bowel habits, and some retraining and exercises. © 2008 Springer-Verlag London.