Accidents

[JanetJAM]

I have been much better lately thought I had the problems under control. I always wear tena pants as this puts my mind at rest just in case. I went shopping yesterday and I didn’t even feel like I needed the toilet and then all of a sudden I just had an accident. Fortunately I had clean ups with me and the pants stopped it leaking so was able to clean myself up but I felt awful does anyone know why this happens. Any help really appreciated.

[Hidden]

Hi there. Yes I have had same experience fecal incontinence recently and it’s humiliating. I haven’t started using pads or special pants but I have large pull ons and leggings so have started carrying spare pants and wipes on me now as well. So far I’ve chucked away my pants but can’t keep this up!

In my case I do have an underlying inflammatory condition that is responsible for my chronic constipation and am on a new med for this along with a powerful existing one so it could be the combination of these two. I’m also guilty of eating meals fairly erratically and haven’t got a great mealtime routine so this makes a lot of difference I feel. On both occasions I’ve been walking the dog and not realised until suddenly the need is upon me and I’ve had to find public toilets and mop up. Ugh!

Maybe you could plan your mealtimes so that you are near a toilet at the relevant time if you can spot a pattern?

[Cn82]

Sorry to hear about your problems. I also have 'accidents' that I get very little warning about, and sometimes don't realise I've had a problem until I feel uncomfortable. I also have bladder problems, and these happen in a similar way. It is really tough, and it certainly affects my anxiety and mental health. I use pads, which aren't perfect, and are bulky and uncomfortable. But they at least give me some protection and confidence if out. I also carry a bag with a 'clean up' kit, like many others. Not much to add, but really do hope things improve for you, and just because people don't talk about, it doesn't mean you are on your own with this. It's hard to be positive, but remember, as a person you are so much more than just your IBS. Take care and good luck.

[JanetJAM in reply to Cn82]

Thank you for your reply, it doesn’t happen often for me but it makes you feel so awful when it does like you are not in control of your own body. I usually just want to get home and stay indoors for a while but I don’t want to get to the stage when I won’t go out then I feel like it’s beaten me. Need to stay strong.

X

[Cn82]

Thanks for the reply. And glad this is a rare issue for you, although I appreciate no less difficult to deal with. For me, it's the uncertainty and how you feel about yourself that can be a real issue when this happens. But not going out is not an option. But I do have my low moments, and when you find yourself in a disabled toilet having to clean yourself up, and you have to wear incontinence pads just to get by, it does make you think about how things turn out. But spending time with my wife and son help me get through it. I think talking about it to friends you trust or even online, in a non-judgemental way can help. Good luck and keep strong. It can be a pain, and hard to accept, but most of the time you get by. And I always try to think about all the good things, and try my best not to dwell on it. But often this is easier said than done. And find things that you enjoy and make you happy, and try and make time for yourself. And as I said before, it is a part of your life, but certainly not the whole. And I know my friends and family see me first and not my IBS, anxiety and continence issues. But self-esteem can be fragile, and I try to remember who I am beyond this. Hope this helps and isn't too hippy-ish. And support and knowing you are not on your own with this, has been helpful for me. As well as being able to moan about it now and again, without fear of being judged. Happy to chat again in the future if this helps.

[JanetJAM]

Ah thank you for your thoughtful reply it does help to know we are not alone with this and there are people in the same situation and we can talk about how we feel with someone who really understands.