What’s a fecal impaction?

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Fecal impaction is characterized by a severe buildup of hardened stool, known as fecal impaction, in the colon or rectum that will not pass or allow for a normal bowel movement. Although fluids can still pass through the rectum, a fecal impaction can cause severe pain and damage to rectal tissue. Also known as chronic constipation, bowel obstruction, or bowel obstruction, fecal impaction is a treatable condition.

Fecal impaction commonly occurs as a result of chronic constipation. A fecal impaction, or a hardened mass of stool, is usually discovered during a gastroenterology exam. Sudden diarrhea can also occur at the same time as an impaction from fluids moving around a fecal impaction.

Symptoms of impaction include stomach bloating, abdominal pain and discomfort, bloody stools, and pencil-shaped stools. A person may also experience a sudden onset of loose stools. In severe cases of intestinal obstruction, an individual may experience intense abdominal pain with an inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. Doctors recommend that anyone experiencing these symptoms seek medical help right away.

In addition to chronic constipation, a bowel obstruction can be caused by a variety of other factors including, but not limited to, hemorrhoids, cancer, poor diet, aging, depression, intentionally avoiding bowel movements, and a general lack of mobility. In some, it is attributed to prescribed medications, which can cause chronic constipation. Intestinal blockages commonly occur in patients who are bedridden or being treated for another condition or disease, such as cancer or a condition known as volvulus in which the intestines have become abnormally twisted. Another condition, known as intestinal pseudo-obstruction, can mimic symptoms of impaction even when there is no impaction or other physical obstruction in the intestines or rectum.

Most people use an enema, stool softener, or laxative to treat a bowel obstruction. Stool buildup can be so severe and painful, however, that some form of medical intervention may be necessary. Changes in eating habits, such as increasing fiber-rich foods, also help relieve the symptoms of impaction. In rare but severe cases, the impaction may require surgery to remove immobile human feces.

Faecal impaction can be life-threatening if not properly treated. When the symptoms of this condition are recognised, doctors recommend treating it right away and not lingering with the expectation that it will go away on its own. To prevent its onset, experts suggest regular physical activity, a balanced diet and adequate hydration.

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