What are the causes of incontinence after stroke?

Urinary and fecal incontinence following a stroke results from the combined effects of neurological damage caused by the stroke, the size and location of the lesion or infarct, and possible complications. 1. Neurological Damage: After a stroke, cerebral blood vessels may become blocked, leading to ischemia and hypoxia of brain tissue, which can cause neurological damage. When the nerves that control urinary and bowel functions are affected, symptoms of urinary and fecal incontinence may occur. 2. Lesion Size and Infarct Location: The size of the cerebral lesion and the location of the infarct following a stroke can lead to varying symptom presentations. In cases of large-area strokes or when the infarct is located in a functional vessel territory, symptoms of urinary and fecal incontinence may be more severe. 3. Complications: Post-stroke complications such as secondary dementia or epileptic seizures may also contribute to urinary and fecal incontinence.