How can I manage stool leakage as a 71-year-old woman?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 71-year-old woman. My height is 5 feet, and I weigh 88 pounds. I have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and high blood pressure (BP). I am taking the following medicines:

For RA:

Medrol 8 mg once a week.
Folitrax 20 mg once a week.
HCQS 200 mg daily.
Fosabond once a week.

For BP:

Sartel trio.
Telma LN.
Concor 2.5 mg.
Moxovas 0.3 mg.
Minipres XL 5 mg.

My problem is that once every four to five days, I experience a very small amount of involuntary stool leakage. Sometimes, it is accompanied by flatulence.

Please advise me on what I should do.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

Your symptoms suggest mild fecal leakage or early fecal Incontinence, which can sometimes occur in older adults due to weakening of the anal sphincter muscles or altered bowel habits. Passing a small amount of stool involuntarily every few days, especially with gas (flatulence), is often related to reduced control of the rectal muscles or stool consistency.

Several factors may contribute in your case. Age-related changes, chronic illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and certain medications can affect bowel function or pelvic floor muscle strength. If stool becomes loose or gas pressure increases, small leakage can occur before reaching the toilet.

First, review your bowel pattern. Try to maintain regular bowel movements by eating fiber-rich foods (oats, fruits, vegetables) and drinking adequate water unless restricted by your physician. Sometimes soluble fiber (psyllium husk) helps regulate stool consistency and reduce leakage.

Pelvic floor strengthening exercises (commonly called Kegel exercises) can improve control of the anal sphincter. These exercises involve repeatedly tightening and relaxing the muscles used to hold back stool.

You should also check for possible contributing conditions such as constipation with overflow leakage, infection, or rectal inflammation. A gastroenterologist may perform a simple rectal examination or anorectal function test if symptoms persist.

Because you are taking multiple medications for RA and blood pressure (BP), it is also important to review them with your physician to ensure none are contributing to bowel changes. If leakage becomes frequent, causes skin irritation, or is associated with diarrhea, bleeding, or weight loss, please seek medical evaluation promptly.

With diet regulation, pelvic floor exercises, and medical review, many patients achieve good control of mild fecal leakage and improved bowel confidence.

I hope this helps you.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.