What is Fecal Impaction?
Whenever you feel as if your bowel movements aren’t regular, you should check with your doctor. This is because you may have a bowel condition called fecal impaction. It is a common condition that occurs when the lining of the bowel becomes loose. It can cause problems if left untreated. Luckily, there are treatment options that can help you get back on track.
Symptoms
Symptoms of fecal impaction include the inability to pass a bowel movement, lower abdominal pain, and rectal discomfort. This condition is most common in the elderly. If left untreated, it can lead to serious conditions, including ulcers. There are several ways to treat fecal impaction, including regular enemas and stool softeners. You can also change your bowel habits to prevent the condition.
A fecal impaction can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and medications. The condition may also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as a neurological disorder or a condition that affects the thyroid or heart. It is important to consult with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.
The main treatment for fecal impaction is to soften the stools. To do this, you will need to perform an enema, which is a simple procedure that involves delivering a large amount of water through a Foley catheter. Make sure that the enema is strong enough to clear the impacted stool. You can also use glycerin suppositories to soften the stool.
If your fecal impaction is severe, you may need surgery to remove the impacted stool. In addition to the surgical procedure, your doctor may order blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, or a CT scan to determine the cause of your impaction.
Your doctor will also perform a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam. This exam will allow your doctor to feel for a mass in the rectum. If your doctor feels a mass in the rectum, you may be referred to a colonoscopy. You may also need to undergo blood work to rule out conditions such as peritoneal colitis, which is inflammation of the intestines.
You may also need to undergo surgery to remove a mass in the colon. If your doctor finds a mass in the colon, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in colon surgery.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of fecal impaction, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible. A fecal impaction may be caused by a number of different conditions, but the best way to treat it is to prevent the condition from occurring in the first place.
Treatment options
Whether you have a history of fecal impaction or are simply experiencing constipation, treatment options are available to improve your quality of life. This GI disorder can be prevented and even reversed with a few changes to your lifestyle.
Treatment options for fecal impaction may include taking over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners. A diet high in fiber is also helpful. Your doctor may also recommend a colon cleansing regimen, which can help you get regular bowel movements.
In the event that your fecal impaction does not go away, you may need to undergo surgery to remove the mass. This can be done through a colonoscopy or another method. Your doctor may order a CT scan or blood work to check for other complications.
You may also need to perform manual removal of the impacted stool. This involves the use of a lubricated gloved finger in the rectum. This is usually uncomfortable, but most people find relief from this procedure.
Other treatment options include using enemas, water irrigation through a sigmoidoscope, or oral solutions. You may also use suppositories between each attempt to empty the rectum. This can be used to help soften the impacted stool.
If you are suffering from fecal impaction, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. It can cause serious complications if left untreated. When treated early, the condition usually goes away quickly. You can also prevent fecal impaction by making dietary changes and staying hydrated.
Symptoms of fecal impaction include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, irregular or fast heartbeat, and abdominal distension. The pain may be felt behind the ribs. You may also experience abdominal swelling and confusion. Symptoms may continue even after you have been cleared of fecal impaction. If left untreated, impacted feces can lead to blood clots, a perforated colon, and even death.
Your healthcare provider can diagnose fecal impaction using a digital rectal exam and a physical examination. They will also check for the presence of a mass in your rectum. They may also recommend an X-ray to check for an impacted mass.
Prevention
Symptoms of fecal impaction include abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and difficulty passing stool. It is important to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you have any of these symptoms. This will help ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment and avoid any complications.
If your healthcare provider suspects you have fecal impaction, he or she may do a physical exam to determine what is causing your symptoms. Your provider may also perform a digital rectal exam, which involves inserting your finger into the rectum. It may be painful and may cause you to feel dizzy or uncomfortable.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend laxatives or stool softeners. Stool softeners can help your stool pass more smoothly and quickly. You may also need to take fiber supplements to increase your intake of fiber.
Fecal impaction is not uncommon, but if left untreated, it can cause serious medical complications. Symptoms include abdominal pain, confusion, nausea, and an inability to pass stool. You may also experience urinary incontinence and weight loss.
Treatment options include oral laxatives, enemas, and stool softeners. You may need to undergo surgery if the fecal impaction is severe.
Fecal impaction is most commonly caused by chronic constipation, but it can also be a symptom of certain illnesses. For example, if you have hypothyroidism, diverticulitis, or cancer, you may have a higher risk of fecal impaction.
Fecal impaction is common and can affect people of all ages, but it is more likely to occur in adults. Children, elderly individuals, and those with limited mobility are also at risk.
When treating fecal impaction, it is important to do so as quickly as possible to avoid serious complications. Untreated impaction can lead to a number of complications, including ulcers and perforation of the colon. A CT scan or abdominal ultrasound may help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.
Some people who are at high risk for fecal impaction also have neurological disorders, hypothyroidism, or a high-fat diet. These individuals should seek treatment for their underlying conditions and increase their dietary fiber intake.
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Harvard Health. (2015, November 17). Health A to Z. https://www.health.harvard.edu/health-a-to-z
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