What is Bowel Dysfunction?

Bowel dysfunction refers to loss of bowel control, severe constipation, difficulty passing stool, or altered bowel habits due to neurological dysfunction.

Common Causes

• Cauda equina syndrome
• Spinal cord compression
• Multiple sclerosis
• Stroke
• Neurological disorders 

Investigations

• MRI Spine
• Neurological assessment
• Bowel function evaluation 

Treatment Options

• Treatment of the underlying neurological cause
• Rehabilitation
• Surgical decompression when indicated 

Red Flags

• Loss of bowel control
• Severe back pain
• Leg weakness
• Saddle numbness
• Urinary retention 

FAQs

Can spinal disorders affect bowel function?

Yes.

Is bowel dysfunction an emergency?

It may indicate serious spinal cord compression.

Can treatment reverse symptoms?

Early intervention improves outcomes.

When to Consult

New-onset bowel dysfunction, especially when associated with back pain or weakness, requires immediate neurological or spine specialist evaluation.

What is Bladder Dysfunction?

Bladder dysfunction includes difficulty passing urine, urinary retention, urgency, or loss of bladder control.

Common Causes

• Spinal cord compression
• Cauda equina syndrome
• Multiple sclerosis
• Stroke
• Neurological disorders 

Investigations

• MRI Spine
• Urodynamic studies
• Neurological examination 

Treatment Options

• Emergency decompression when required
• Medications
• Rehabilitation 

Red Flags

• Sudden urinary retention
• Back pain
• Leg weakness
• Saddle numbness 

FAQs

Can spinal disorders affect bladder control?

Yes.

Is bladder dysfunction an emergency?

It can be.

When should I seek medical attention?

Immediately if symptoms occur suddenly.

When to Consult

Bladder dysfunction associated with back pain or weakness requires urgent medical evaluation.