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Fecal Urgency

Fecal urgency is a sudden, intense sensation and compelling need to defecate that is difficult to postpone. This symptom arises from a decreased ability of the rectum to act as a compliant storage reservoir, often due to inflammation, loss of volume after surgery, or nerve dysfunction. Conditions like proctitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and Low Anterior Resection Syndrome are common causes. The rectum becomes hypersensitive, and even small amounts of stool can trigger a strong contractile response and the conscious sensation of needing to evacuate immediately. It is a key component of urge-related fecal incontinence.

Frequently asked questions

Is fecal urgency the same as fecal incontinence?
No, but they are related. Fecal urgency is the strong sensation that you need to go to the bathroom right away. Fecal incontinence is the actual leakage of stool. A person can have urgency without incontinence if their sphincter muscles are strong enough to hold back the stool until they reach a toilet. When urgency is severe and the sphincters are not able to hold on, it results in 'urge incontinence.'

Can certain foods make my urgency worse?
Yes, absolutely. For many people, certain foods can stimulate the colon and increase motility, leading to a more urgent need to defecate. Common triggers include caffeine, spicy foods, and large meals. For people with specific intolerances, foods like dairy (lactose) can also cause urgent diarrhea.

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