Fecal Incontinence after Chemotherapy

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1

Hi,

I have been having issues with wind and fecal incontinence. I am embarrassed as the wind comes without notice. I have not made it to the toilet at times because I don’t always get much warning I want to go. Also having cleaning myself very thoroughly I get a ‘messy liquid’ in my underwear later on, sometimes after passing wind, sometimes not.
I finished chemotherapy last December. I have had 2 surgeries. I’m not taking any medication post cancer as I am awaiting radiotherapy.
I suppose I want to know if I am going to get better soon and is this a side effect of chemotherapy which will disappear over time I have an appointment to see my GP here in Spain in 2 weeks
Thanks for your help

2

Hi espana25

Thanks for your post. It sounds as though you are having a very difficult time at the moment so it’s understandable you want to know more about the symptoms you are experiencing just now, following chemotherapy and surgery.

Some types of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, along with the cancer itself can contribute to or worsen existing bowel problems in some people with a diagnosis of cancer. However, this is more common in those with gynaecological, bowel, anal or prostate cancers rather than breast cancer.

Faecal incontinence, can be caused by a variety of factors, including constipation, diarrhoea, weakened anal sphincter muscles, neurological conditions and certain medications.

You don’t say whether your symptoms started during chemotherapy or only since you finished. You also don’t say if you’ve been in touch with your treatment team to discuss your symptoms and whether they have confirmed they are a side effect of the treatment you’ve had. However, it’s important to determine the cause of your symptoms so you can be offered appropriate support and information about how to manage the symptoms and how long they might last. Your treatment team are best placed to do this.

Although calls are not free outside the UK you might find it helpful to call our helpline if you would like to talk this through more with one of us or have any further questions on our overseas number +44 20 3553 2277.

Your call will be confidential and the helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary.

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Best wishes

Catherine

Breast Care Nurse

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