Bowel Control Problems: Treatments Are Available

Last week, we started a conversation that can be embarrassing to talk about: bowel control. However, talking about the problem is the first step in treatment.

Hi, I'm Dr. Griffin Rodgers, Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases at NIH.

Although you may be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about bowel control problems, your doctor will not be shocked or surprised. Treatments for bowel control problems are available and effective. They include changes to eating, diet, and nutrition, medications, pelvic floor exercises, bowel training, and surgery. You may find that keeping a stool diary can help to manage your bowel control problems. Also, a food diary may identify foods and drinks that cause changes in your bowel habits.

Talk to your doctor to learn which treatment options are best for you.

For more information, follow us @NIDDKgov. This is Dr. Griffin Rodgers.