Additional problems

[Hipchick09]

Hi all,

My husband sustained a TBI in 2018 and had many problems with memory loss, executive decisions, fatigue etc which we are trying to manage.

However for the last year he has experienced faecal incontinence which has caused him some embarrassing moments when we are out.

It has got so much worse, has anyone else experienced this and can anything be done about it?

Thanx

[Pairofboots]

Hi Hip, yes I experienced double incontinence a while after my recovery arrested. Your husband needs a referral to the incontinence service. They can give advice. Unfortunately they don't necessarily understand brain injury. They may well suggest attempting to retrain the bladder and bowel, similar to potty training a child. Personally I found this a little condescending, as I had no control when awake, let alone when asleep. They may suggest various devices, you and your husband will have to decide if these are really practical. The last option is incontinence pads. I was horrified at first, but early on I only needed them when out, but it did progress to needing them 24/7. They may give you some try before you buy samples (you will not have to buy them if needed, as they are prescribed). Pads are a bit primitive, but they do save clothing from soiling. Initially you do start to live via toilets, how long between needing one, the route you go so a toilet is never too far away, but this does become easier over time. You can download a toilet finder app that will locate the nearest toilet. Also get a RADAR key to access disabled toilets, you can buy these from Argos, and online, but it is worth getting one from the 'RADAR key company' they cost a little more, but they do test each key before sale.

(Pads are prescribed via your GP practice, they are ordered from, and delivered by the community stores via the council. Pads are delivered in a six month supply. This is the most difficult part, finding room to store the pads)

🍀

[Hipchick09 in reply to Pairofboots]

Thank you so much for that info. I have ordered Radar key and will make a Dr appointment.

[sashaming1]

I make it a habit to never pass by a bathroom without using it even when I don't think I need to use it. There are exercises (involving the "Pelvic floor") which are supposed to help with bladder control. Also "Kegel" exercises.

[Hipchick09 in reply to sashaming1]

Thank you for your reply. It's more about the bowel , he can seem to manage the other well enough. Thank you though

[cat3]

Hi Hipchick. Hope one of the following treatments for dealing with incontinence might include a viable option for your man's peace of mind and dignity :-

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google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q...

Regards, Cat x

[cat3 in reply to cat3]

PS - meant to say I have a friend who has used a colostomy bag since her twenties and lives a normal life with good job, family and friends ; few people are aware of her issue. x

[Hipchick09 in reply to cat3]

Something we have discussed but he wont consider it. Will make a gp appointment to at least have it on record. Possibly get pads etc on prescription, every little helps x