Neurogenic bowel is the loss of normal bowel function caused by a nerve problem in the colon. The colon is where solid waste is stored before it leaves the body. Nerve problems here can cause long-term problems with constipation, bowel control, and other issues. A spinal cord injury or a nerve disease may damage the nerves that help control the colon.
These problems can affect a person's physical, social, and emotional well-being. But there are treatments that can help.
Types of treatment
Bowel care plan
A bowel care plan can help you manage your neurogenic bowel. This includes a daily schedule and treatments to help remove the stool from the rectum. This helps prevent accidents, constipation, and blockage. Your care team can help you develop a bowel care plan based on the type of neurogenic bowel you have. The plan may include:
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Oral medicines to help move stool through the colon and out of the body. These can include different types of bowel stimulants, laxatives, and fiber.
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Enemas to help flush stool from the body.
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Physical or electrical stimulation of the rectum or colon.
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Using a gloved finger to break up or remove stool.
Home care
Along with following your bowel care plan, there are other things you can do at home to help with your bowel problems.
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Use a fiber supplement. Ask your doctor what type and how often to take it.
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Drink plenty of water each day. Ask your doctor how much is right for you.
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Plan your bathroom sessions. Try to establish a consistent time for bowel movements. Rectal suppositories may also help with this.
Surgery
Colostomy surgery may help when other treatments have not worked well enough. It may also be needed if you have repeated bowel obstructions or other more severe problems.
Possible complications
Neurogenic bowel can sometimes cause other problems. These complications may include:
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Hemorrhoids. These are enlarged veins around the anus.
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Bowel blockage (impaction).
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Bowel control accidents.
Following a bowel care plan can help you prevent these problems. Work with your care team to create and maintain the best bowel care plan for you.
