Neurogenic bowel dysfunction

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Neurogenic bowel dysfunction
Synonyms	Neurogenic bowel
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Constipation, fecal incontinence, abdominal pain
Complications	Bowel obstruction, megacolon, hemorrhoids
Onset	Varies depending on underlying cause
Duration	Chronic
Types	Upper motor neuron bowel, lower motor neuron bowel
Causes	Spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, Parkinson's disease
Risks	Immobility, neurological disorders
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, anorectal manometry, colonic transit study
Differential diagnosis	Irritable bowel syndrome, mechanical bowel obstruction
Prevention	Management of underlying neurological condition
Treatment	Bowel management program, dietary modifications, medications, surgery
Medication	Laxatives, stool softeners, enemas
Prognosis	Varies; depends on underlying condition and management
Frequency	Common in individuals with neurological disorders
Deaths	Rarely directly fatal, but complications can be serious

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction is a condition that affects the normal functioning of the bowels due to damage or disease of the nervous system. This condition can result in a variety of symptoms, including constipation, diarrhea, incontinence, and difficulty emptying the bowels. Neurogenic bowel dysfunction can be caused by a range of neurological disorders, such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and stroke. Symptoms of neurogenic bowel dysfunction can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include difficulty controlling bowel movements, abdominal pain, bloating, and incomplete emptying of the bowels. Individuals with neurogenic bowel dysfunction may also experience complications such as fecal impaction, bowel obstruction, and bowel perforation if the condition is not managed effectively. Treatment for neurogenic bowel dysfunction aims to improve bowel function and prevent complications. This may involve a combination of dietary modifications, bowel management programs, medications, and surgical interventions. Bowel management programs typically include techniques such as scheduled toileting, dietary fiber supplementation, and the use of laxatives or stool softeners to regulate bowel movements. In some cases, individuals with severe neurogenic bowel dysfunction may require more invasive treatments, such as surgical procedures to repair or bypass damaged nerves or muscles in the bowel. It is important for individuals with neurogenic bowel dysfunction to work closely with healthcare providers, including gastroenterologists, neurologists, and physical therapists, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Overall, neurogenic bowel dysfunction can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, but with proper management and support, many individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain bowel function.

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