Can’t Control Bowels As Well After A Colonoscopy? Understanding Potential Changes
It’s uncommon to experience significant, lasting bowel control issues after a colonoscopy. While temporary changes are normal due to bowel preparation and the procedure itself, persistent difficulty controlling your bowels after a colonoscopy should be discussed with your doctor.
Background: The Colonoscopy Procedure
A colonoscopy is a vital screening procedure used to detect abnormalities, such as polyps or cancer, in the colon and rectum. It involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera attached (the colonoscope) into the rectum and advancing it through the entire colon.
Benefits of Colonoscopy
The benefits of a colonoscopy are considerable, including:
- Early detection of colorectal cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
- Removal of precancerous polyps, preventing future cancer development.
- Diagnosis of other gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
- Peace of mind knowing your colon is healthy.
The Colonoscopy Process: What to Expect
The colonoscopy procedure itself typically takes 30-60 minutes. Here’s a general overview:
- Bowel Preparation: The most crucial part! You’ll need to thoroughly clean out your colon using prescribed laxatives, clear liquid diets, and sometimes enemas. This ensures a clear view for the doctor.
- Sedation: Most patients receive sedation to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Insertion of Colonoscope: The colonoscope is gently inserted into the rectum and advanced through the colon.
- Examination and Biopsy/Polypectomy (if necessary): The doctor examines the lining of the colon for any abnormalities. If polyps are found, they can often be removed during the procedure. Biopsies may also be taken.
- Recovery: You’ll be monitored in a recovery area as the sedation wears off.
Common Post-Colonoscopy Symptoms
After a colonoscopy, it’s normal to experience:
- Bloating and gas.
- Mild abdominal cramping.
- Small amount of blood in the first bowel movement.
- Urgency to defecate.
These symptoms are typically temporary and resolve within a day or two. However, if you can’t control bowels as well after a colonoscopy and the symptoms are persistent or severe, further investigation is needed.
Why Bowel Control Issues May Arise
While rare, several factors could contribute to bowel control issues after a colonoscopy:
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions: If a person already has underlying bowel issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or fecal incontinence, the colonoscopy preparation and procedure could temporarily worsen these conditions.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications used during or after the procedure can affect bowel function.
- Nerve Damage (Extremely Rare): While highly unlikely, there’s a theoretical risk of nerve damage during the procedure. This is more common with surgery.
- Anxiety: Sometimes, the anxiety associated with the procedure and its results can contribute to perceived changes in bowel control.
- Dehydration: Dehydration following the bowel prep can lead to constipation and difficulty with bowel movements, which can feel like a loss of control.
Addressing Bowel Control Concerns
If you’re experiencing difficulty controlling your bowels as well after a colonoscopy, here’s what you should do:
- Contact your doctor: Schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and medical history.
- Keep a food diary: Track what you eat and drink to identify potential triggers.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent constipation.
- Consider fiber supplementation: Fiber can help regulate bowel movements.
- Avoid irritating foods: Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
- Pelvic Floor exercises: In some cases, exercises may help strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Urgency | Bowel prep irritation, Anxiety | Stay near a bathroom, Try relaxation techniques, Contact doctor. |
| Leakage | Pre-existing condition, temporary weakness | Pelvic floor exercises, Discuss with doctor regarding fecal incontinence. |
| Constipation | Dehydration, Medication | Increase fluid and fiber intake, Discuss medications with doctor. |
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following after a colonoscopy:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent bleeding from the rectum
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Inability to pass gas or stool
Can a colonoscopy cause permanent damage to the bowel?
No, permanent bowel damage from a colonoscopy is extremely rare. The procedure is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Perforation (a hole in the colon) is a rare but serious complication, but this would usually be immediately apparent.
Is it normal to have diarrhea after a colonoscopy?
Yes, diarrhea is a common and expected side effect after a colonoscopy due to the bowel preparation process. The colon needs to be completely cleared out before the procedure, and the laxatives used can cause frequent and watery bowel movements. This usually resolves within 1-2 days.
How long does it take for your bowels to return to normal after a colonoscopy?
For most people, bowel function returns to normal within a few days to a week after a colonoscopy. It can depend on the individual’s pre-existing bowel habits, the type of bowel preparation used, and any medications taken during or after the procedure.
Why am I still bloated a week after my colonoscopy?
While it’s uncommon, bloating can persist for a week or slightly longer after a colonoscopy. Factors that contribute include residual gas trapped in the colon, individual bowel sensitivities, and dietary factors. If the bloating is severe or accompanied by pain, nausea, or vomiting, it’s important to contact your doctor.
Can the anesthesia used during a colonoscopy affect my bowels?
The anesthesia used during a colonoscopy can indirectly affect bowel function. It can slow down bowel motility, potentially leading to temporary constipation or bloating. Furthermore, some patients experience nausea after anesthesia, which can affect their appetite and fluid intake, further impacting bowel movements.
What can I eat to help regulate my bowels after a colonoscopy?
After a colonoscopy, it’s best to start with easily digestible foods like broth, toast, and bananas. Gradually introduce fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also crucial for regulating bowel movements. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in fat.
Should I take probiotics after a colonoscopy?
Taking probiotics after a colonoscopy may be beneficial for some people. The bowel preparation process can disrupt the gut microbiome, and probiotics may help to restore a healthy balance of bacteria. However, it’s best to discuss this with your doctor to determine if probiotics are right for you and to choose an appropriate strain and dosage.
What are pelvic floor exercises, and how can they help?
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and uterus. They can help improve bowel control by strengthening the muscles that control the anal sphincter. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Consult a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation for guidance.
Can a colonoscopy trigger IBS symptoms?
In some individuals predisposed to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the bowel preparation process and/or the colonoscopy procedure itself can potentially trigger or exacerbate IBS symptoms. The changes in the gut microbiome and the physical manipulation of the colon may contribute to this.
What if I feel like I can’t completely empty my bowels after a colonoscopy?
A sensation of incomplete evacuation is a common post-colonoscopy symptom. This is often due to temporary irritation of the rectum or residual gas. It usually resolves on its own within a few days. However, if it persists or is accompanied by pain or bleeding, it’s important to contact your doctor.
How can I prepare my body best for a colonoscopy to minimize post-procedure problems?
Proper preparation is key to minimizing potential problems after a colonoscopy. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the bowel preparation, including the prescribed laxatives and dietary restrictions. Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after the procedure. Discuss any pre-existing conditions or medications you’re taking with your doctor.
When is it considered fecal incontinence rather than just temporary bowel changes following the colonoscopy?
Fecal incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of stool. Some temporary leakage or urgency can be normal after a colonoscopy. However, if you experience frequent or persistent episodes of involuntary stool loss lasting more than a few days, it may be indicative of fecal incontinence and warrants further evaluation by a doctor. You can’t control bowels as well after a colonoscopy for the immediate few days after the procedure but extended problems with controlling your bowels should be checked out by your physician.