Sudden loss of bowel control?

Lost bowel control: "minor incontinence" is partial soiling of occasional loss of loose or watery stool, while "major incontinence" is loss of control of stool of normal consistency. In minor incontinence, consider deficient internal sphicter tone due to trauma, rectal prolapse, prolapsing hemorrhoids, drug effects, fecal impaction (in elderly, neurologic disorders). Anal manometry testing with biofeedback may help.

See doctor.: Episodic loss of control may be related to a loose/watery stool; even normal sphincters find it hard to control that. If, however, you have true sudden loss of continence which persists, see your doctor at once. This could be a sign of a neurologic problem or a growth in the pelvis. These can be treated successfully, but as always, sooner is better.