Overview
Constipation, loss of control of the bowels, or diarrhea are common symptoms of superficial siderosis. It’s a problem that causes embarrassment and is very unpleasant. Severe constipation may not only be painful but also poses health risks.
If you are experiencing myelopathyOverview Myelopathy is one of the three major symptom catego... More, then a combination of the brainstem and spinal cord involvement along with autonomic peripheral neuropathyOverview The peripheral nervous system is divided into three... More may result in alternating episodes of constipation and bowel incontinence. This type of constipation does not respond very well to laxatives or fiber since it reflects a widespread motility problem affecting the whole gut. Although rare, this condition requires consulting a gastroenterologist for motility testing.
Constipation
Constipation in superficial siderosis, when it’s not nerve-related, may also be aggravated by:
- Not Drinking Enough Water
- Litlle to no Physical Activity
- Medication Side Effects
Staying Regular
- Drink more water — at least 48 ounces (6 to 8 glasses) daily.
- Add fiber into your diet. Fiber is found in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, and dietary additives such as powdered psyllium preparations.
- Physical activity helps keep things moving.
- Discuss over-the-counter options such as stool softeners or bulk forming supplements with your physician.
- Enemas or Suppositories
- Manual stimulation by a healthcare provider
Bowel Control
Bowel control problems are defined as “the inability to hold a bowel movement until reaching a bathroom”.
Common Problems
Diarrhea is an increased volume of loose stools that creates a sense of urgency to get to the toilet.
Alternating constipation/diarrhea When constipation blocks bowel movement, loose watery stools can build up behind the blocking stool. In addition, constipation will make the rectum muscles stretch, weakening them. When these muscles become too weak, they can no longer hold stool long enough for a person to get to a toilet in time.
Damaged Nerves Nerve damage will interfere with the signals to the brain. When this occurs, your brain will not be alerted that a stool is ready to be voided and the muscles in the rectum will release without any warning sensation.
Management
In the case of occasional or light leakage, absorbent protective wear may offer a solution.
Nonsurgical
NON-INVASIVE TREATMENT
- Sacral Nerve Stimulation
- SECCA®. A physician delivers precisely controlled radiofrequency energy to the anal canal to thicken the tissue and thereby improve the function of the sphincter muscle.
- Fenix®. A small, flexible band of titanium beads with magnetic cores is used to create a barrier to involuntary bowel leakage. The magnetic bond is temporarily broken to allow the voluntary passage of stool and restored immediately thereafter.
Surgical
- Colostomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening called a stoma, in the abdominal wall. The colon is attached and a disposable bag is fitted to collect stool.
Updated: December 14, 2017