Cauda Equina Syndrome and Constipation

Cauda equina syndrome is associated with a number of bowel symptoms, including constipation. In this article we explore cauda equina syndrome and bowel dysfunction in more detail.

Does cauda equina syndrome cause constipation?

Cauda equina syndrome is when the nerves at the bottom of the spinal cord are compressed, causing them to become damaged. This will lead to a number of symptoms, the first of which is usually chronic lower back pain which may extend to the buttocks and legs.

Because of this pain, most will begin to take strong painkillers. Constipation is a common side-effect of painkillers, and this is one reason patients with cauda equina syndrome are often unable to open their bowels.

The second reason is that the cauda equina nerves enable function in the pelvic organs, including the colon and the rectum. When they are compressed and damaged, function will gradually be lost, resulting in bowel dysfunction. This dysfunction can lead to constipation, although conversely it can also cause faecal incontinence due to the loss of rectal tone.

Other symptoms of cauda equina syndrome

Along with back pain and bowel dysfunction, the other symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include:-

• Bladder dysfunction, including increased urinary frequency, the inability to full void and urinary incontinence;
• Loss of urethral sensation;
• Loss of sensation in the perineum;
• Weakness in the legs;
• Erectile dysfunction in men.

Spotting the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome

Back pain, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and perineal numbness are all red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome. Together these symptoms should immediately indicate spinal nerve compression, prompting medical professionals into taking urgent action.

Unfortunately, however, there are occasions when doctors mistake the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome for another more minor condition, such as a urinary tract infection or generalised lower back pain. This will be devastating as the nerves will soon be so damaged that the injury is irreparable.

If medical professionals fail to recognise cauda equina syndrome and this leads to a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of the condition, the standard of care will be deemed unacceptable. If this substandard level of care causes a patient to suffer complications that could otherwise have been avoided, there will be grounds for a medical negligence compensation claim.

Cauda equina solicitors

If you believe you are entitled to make a cauda equina claim, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today.

Please call us free on 0800 234 3300, from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our Free Online Enquiry for a no cost, no obligation opinion.

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