Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Quality of Life in Women With Fecal Incontinence

Abstract

Objectives The objectives were to determine the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and IBS subtypes in women presenting for fecal incontinence (FI) treatment and to assess the impact of IBS on FI symptoms and quality of life (QOL). Methods In this multicenter prospective cohort study, women reported at least monthly solid, liquid, or mucus FI. Rome III clinical criteria defined IBS. Women also self-reported having an IBS diagnosis. Baseline questionnaires included: Modified Manchester Health Questionnaire, Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, Bristol Stool Scale, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire. Results Of the 133 women enrolled, 119 completed Rome III IBS questionnaires, and 111 reported on whether they had previously been diagnosed with IBS. The prevalence of IBS was 31% (95% CI 22.9%, 40.2%) according to the Rome III IBS criteria. The most common subtypes were IBS-mixed (41%) and IBS-diarrhea (35%). Twenty-four out of 111 patients (22%) had previously been diagnosed with IBS. Among women who met Rome III IBS criteria, 23/35 (66%) had never been diagnosed with IBS. Women with FI and IBS reported significantly worse QOL compared to women without IBS despite similar FI severity and stool consistency. Conclusions IBS negatively impacts QOL and affects one-third of women with FI presenting for care in tertiary centers. Our findings suggest that assessment of IBS symptoms and diagnosis may be important for women presenting for FI treatment.

Comparison of Laughter Yoga and Anti-Anxiety Medication on Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Symptoms of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

“…IBS has four subtypes: IBS-D (diarrhea), IBS-U (unclassified), IBS-M (mixed, equal diarrhea and constipation types), and IBS-C (constipation), 4 of them IBS-M is more prevalent than IBS-C and IBS-D. Its pathophysiology is not well known; however, abnormal bowel movements, central nervous system dysfunction, local immune responses to acute infectious gastroenteritis, changes in the gut flora, genetic factors, and mental disorders such as anxiety may be considered as acceptable causes. 7,8 This heterogeneity in etiology of the disease leads to various symptoms in affected patients.…”