A sphincter weakness describes a functional disorder of the sphincter in the area of the anus. In the most cases such a slowly developing muscle weakness is absolutely not noticed for a long time. If the stool is shaped and firm a weak sphincter muscle can fulfill its function without a big problem.
Often the first time when the patient notices that the sphincter muscle does not work properly is during diarrhea. Not seldom the bladder sphincter is also affected in women, so that during physical efforts, especially when coughing the urine can no longer be held.
Fecal incontinence is defined as an uncontrolled discharge of stool and flatulence. This disease is still a big taboo subject, though about 3 - 5% of the entire population is affected.
What fecal incontinence means depends on the definition. Here is a very rough division:
Fecal incontinence 1st Grade
Fecal incontinence 2nd Grade
Fecal incontinence 3rd Grade
Uncontrolled discharge of flatulence
Uncontrolled discharge of thin stool and flatulence
Uncontrolled discharge of flatulence, thin and solid stool
Independent of fecal incontinence there is a fine incontinence, which leads to discharge, smearing and soiled underwear, though the sphincter functions well. It is caused by hemorrhoids or other diseases in the anal canal.
When stool incontinence appears the internal and external sphincter play a central role. The smooth muscles of the internal sphincter involuntary keeps the anal canal closed also at night and opens only as a reflex response e.g. during defecation. The striated muscle of the external sphincter is under voluntary control, and this way it makes it possible to control or keep the stool consciously.
Complaints
Causes