McConnell Colorectal Center

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Frequently Asked Questions

Colonoscopy, Surgical Procedures, Colorectal Diseases, and Anal Diseases

• Hemorrhoids
• Rectal Problems
• Rectal Bleeding, Abscess, Fissure
• Cancer (in combination with colon, bowel, rectal, polyp, colorectal), Diverticulitis, Rectal Leakage
• Anal Mass, Rectal Mass, Pilonidal Cyst, Tailbone Pain or Drainage, Colorectal
• Urodynamics, Constipation, Diarrhea, Fecal or Stool Incontinence
• Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Laparoscopy
• Trans-rectal Ultra Sound, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Polypectomy, Strictures of Anus or Rectum, Colonic Neoplasms

Urodynamics

Urodynamics describes a series of diagnostic tests which evaluate disorders. Urodynamics are used for clinical questions about a bladder.  A urodynamic evaluation may be administered for incontinence, nocturia, frequency, urgency, pain and a slow urine stream.

Constipation

Constipation or Irregularity is a condition of the digestive system where hard feces develops. The hard feces are difficult to eliminate and may be painful.  Constipation may lead to bowel obstruction. Obstipation refers to severe constipation. Constipation may be caused by a poor diet, hormone levels or a medication side effect.  Treatment to constipation includes changing a diet, incorporating fiber and sometimes surgery.

When one is constipated, the stool is hard. Constipation may lead to straining which may cause hemorrhoids and/or fissures of the anus. A constipated condition may depend on dietary habits and exercise.

Diarrhea

Acute diarrhea is a digestive disorder that most everyone experiences at some point in time. Diarrhea may last for a few days.  Diarrhea often requires several trips to the toilet and may mean your stool is producing more quantity.  Diarrhea includes loose, watery stools and abdominal cramps.  Diarrhea may be a result of an infection from a virus, bacteria or parasites. Diarrhea may also be caused by antibiotics and artificial sweeteners.

Chronic diarrhea may be a sign of a serious disorder like inflammatory bowel disease. Chronic diarrhea may be due to a less serious condition like irritable bowel syndrome.

Significant amounts of water and salts may be lost through diarrhea.  Chronic diarrhea may be a sign of a more serious problem like a chronic infection, inflammatory bowel disease or poor absorption of nutrients.

Typically diarrhea clears on its own and does not require treatment. If diarrhea persists, you should see your physician.

Fecal or Stool Incontinence

Fecal incontinence (also known as stool incontinence), is the inability to control the passage of stool.  Fecal incontinence may be a socially and emotionally disabling condition. Fecal incontinence may also be socially embarrassing.  Stool incontinence may require a person to be near a bathroom. Adult diapers may be necessary.

© 2009 McConnell Colorectal Center