Sources
Help build the largest human-edited directory on the web.
Submit a site - Become an editor
Wikipedia. Licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.
Are you an expert in this subject? Join the discussion and share your knowledge at Wikipedia.org.
Fecal impaction
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A fecal impaction is a solid, immobile bulk of stool that can develop in the rectum as a result of chronic constipation.
Symptoms include chronic constipation. There can be fecal incontinence and paradoxical diarrhea as liquid stool passes around the obstruction. Complications may include necrosis and ulcers of the rectal tissue.
Non-invasive treatments are similar to those for constipation and include increased intake of fluids and dietary fiber, and physical exercise. However, once fecal impaction occurs, these methods are usually not successful.
The main stay of treatment are enemas to soften the impaction and disimpaction, i.e. digital manipulation by a health practitioner. Use of laxatives may be dangerous because of the possibility of tearing caused by violent expulsion of a large mass (known as stercoral perforation). Surgery may be necessary if the bowel becomes totally obstructed.
- Wrenn K (1989). "Fecal impaction". N Engl J Med 321 (10): 658-62. PMID 2671728.
- healthcentral.com
 |
This medical article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |