In some cases, the patient may develop incontinence problems as a result of holding bowel movements for prolonged periods out of fear of pain due to constipation or hemorrhoids. Embarrassment over bowel accidents or anger or fear about being rushed or even forced through a bowel training routine may be part of the problem. Even changes in the person's diet, eating pattern or fluid intake can trigger bowel incontinence. All cases of bowel incontinence should be checked promptly by a doctor. Many causes will respond to treatment, and the problem may be solved.
Most patients can maintain bowel control if they are helped early enough.
Even if the incontinence is caused simply by the progressing Alzheimer's disease itself, your health care team should have suggestions on how to cope with the problem. As a caregiver, you will have to observe the impaired person carefully and report what you see to the health care team. You are also the one who will carry out any prescribed treatment or care plan. You will need to find ways to ensure the patient's comfort and cope with the extra work incontinence creates. You must also deal with any feelings and reactions of your own.