Question

My 70-year-old husband leaks a little stool from time to time. He can't help it, but it's very embarrassing and demoralizing. Can anything be done?

Answer

First, he is not alone. In one study it was found that 5.7% of women and 6.2% of men over 40 have some sort of 'fecal incontinence', as it's called. Second, he should have a thorough evaluation by an expert - a g-i surgeon. It's important to find out if the anal sphincter (the ring muscle that keeps the anus closed) is damaged; this can be done by an ultrasound exam.
If the sphincter is all right, there are a number of treatment options. A nurse can give specialized advice about lifestyle, diet, techniques to empty the rectum, etc, and anti-diarrhea medications. There are exercises to improve the strength of the sphincter muscle. And finally, 'biofeedback' can be used.
 

Biofeedback sessions for fecal incontinence involve placing a pressure sensor in the anal opening, and training the person to contract his anal sphincter to respond to distension. This can be done in the clinic, or sometimes using an apparatus at home.
 

All the methods - beyond just simple advice - were shown in a recent study to be equally effective in helping sufferers. Over half the patients achieved some benefit, so it's clearly worthwhile trying. Get your husband to go to the doctor and seek this sort of help.

Related Links
NIH: Fecal Incontinence
Family Doctor: Fecal Incontinence