What is Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction?

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) happens when you lose normal bowel control because of a problem with your nervous system. If the nerves between your gut and brain are damaged, your body has trouble moving waste through your intestines and controlling the muscles needed for bowel movements.

How common is Neurogenic bowel dysfunction?

NBD is very common in people with neurological conditions. It affects almost 80% of people with spinal cord injuries, about half of those with multiple sclerosis (MS), and many people with Parkinson’s disease or spina bifida.

What are the symptoms of Neurogenic bowel dysfunction?

Symptoms usually fall into two groups, based on where the nerve damage is:

• Constipation: Slow movement of stool through the colon, leading to hard, dry stools.
• Fecal Incontinence: The inability to control the release of stool, leading to accidents.
• Abdominal Bloating: Discomfort and swelling in the stomach area.
• Rectal Pain: Discomfort during attempts to pass stool.
• Prolonged Evacuation: Taking a long time, sometimes even hours, to finish a bowel movement.

What causes Neurogenic bowel dysfunction?

NBD happens when the central nervous system or peripheral nerves are damaged. Common causes are:

• Spinal Cord Injury: Disrupting the signals from the brain to the rectum.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Nerve lesions affecting signal transmission.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Affecting the muscles and nerves of the digestive tract.
• Spina Bifida: A congenital condition affecting the spine.
• Stroke: Brain damage that affects the motor control of the bowel.

How do doctors diagnose Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction?

To diagnose NBD, doctors review your medical history and do tests to see how your bowel is working. They start by asking about your bowel habits, how often you go, and any accidents. A physical exam, including a digital rectal exam, checks muscle tone and reflexes. Transit studies use X-rays to follow markers you swallow and see how fast stool moves through your intestines. Anorectal manometry measures the pressure and function of the anal sphincter muscles to find any problems.

How is Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction treated?

Treatment aims to establish a regular bowel routine that helps prevent accidents and allows you to stay independent.

Managing your diet with high-fiber foods and drinking enough fluids helps keep your stool regular. Following a set schedule for bathroom visits each day can train your body to get into a routine.

Doctors may recommend medications such as stool softeners, stimulants, or suppositories to aid in bowel movements. Sometimes, if necessary, a specialist may advise you to use manual techniques such as digital stimulation or manual evacuation.

Transanal irrigation (TAI) is a more hands-on method that uses water to flush out the lower bowel. In severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, surgery like a colostomy may be an option to greatly improve quality of life.

What are the complications of Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction?

If neurogenic bowel dysfunction is not managed, it can cause serious physical and emotional problems.

Among the most critical is autonomic dysreflexia, where a full bowel triggers a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure in individuals with high spinal cord injuries.

Chronic straining or repeated manual evacuation can result in hemorrhoids and anal fissures, while stool that cannot pass naturally may harden into a mass, causing fecal impaction.

Ongoing fecal incontinence can damage the skin, causing irritation and pressure sores. The condition can also affect mental health. Many people avoid social situations because of fear or embarrassment, which can lead to feeling isolated.

What can I expect if I have Neurogenic bowel dysfunction?

NBD is a long-term condition that requires ongoing care. It can be frustrating, but with the right combination of diet, medication, and timing, most people can find a routine that works for them.

Can Neurogenic bowel dysfunction be prevented?

You usually can’t prevent the nerve damage that causes NBD, but you can manage symptoms early to avoid problems like impaction or severe incontinence.

How do I take care of myself?

Managing neurogenic bowel dysfunction well depends on keeping daily habits and making healthy lifestyle changes. These self-care tips can help you improve your digestion and stay independent:

• Keep a bowel diary to track what works and what doesn't.
• Stay physically active to help stimulate bowel movement.
• Ensure your bathroom setup is accessible and comfortable.
• Stay in close communication with a neuro-gastroenterology specialist.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced neurologists and gastroenterologists who provide accurate diagnosis and both non-surgical and surgical treatment options including bowel management programs, medication therapy, and comprehensive neurological rehabilitation procedures. Our Neurology and Gastroenterology team has decades of experience in successfully treating Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction Treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back