Fecal impaction
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Fecal impaction | |
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Synonyms | N/A |
Pronounce | N/A |
Specialty | N/A |
Symptoms | Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea |
Complications | Bowel obstruction, perforation, ulceration, fecal incontinence |
Onset | Gradual |
Duration | Variable |
Types | N/A |
Causes | Chronic constipation, opioid use, immobility, dehydration, neurological disorders |
Risks | Elderly, bedridden, neurological impairment |
Diagnosis | Physical examination, abdominal X-ray, CT scan |
Differential diagnosis | Bowel obstruction, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome |
Prevention | N/A |
Treatment | Manual disimpaction, enema, laxatives, surgery |
Medication | Laxatives, stool softeners |
Prognosis | N/A |
Frequency | Common in elderly and hospitalized patients |
Deaths | N/A |
Fecal impaction is a severe bowel condition where a hard, dry mass of stool becomes stuck in the colon or rectum. This is often due to chronic constipation and can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The primary cause of fecal impaction is chronic constipation. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including a lack of fiber in the diet, insufficient fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of fecal impaction can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and feeling the need to have a bowel movement but being unable to do so. In severe cases, fecal impaction can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even fecal incontinence.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of fecal impaction typically involves a physical examination, including a rectal exam. In some cases, additional tests may be needed, such as an abdominal X-ray or a colonoscopy.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for fecal impaction involves removing the impacted stool. This can often be done at home using over-the-counter treatments such as stool softeners, enemas, or manual removal. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of fecal impaction involves maintaining a healthy diet high in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, getting regular exercise, and avoiding medications that can cause constipation.
See also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD