Fecal impaction

A fecal impaction is a solid, immobile bulk of stoolthat can develop in the rectumas a result of chronic constipation.

Symptoms include chronic constipation with sudden, watery diarrhea. Complications may include necrosisand ulcersof the rectal tissue.

Non-invasive treatments are similar to those for constipation and include increased intake of fluids and dietary fiber, and physical exercise.

Other treatments include using enemasto soften the impaction and digitalmanipulation by a health practitioner. Use of laxativesmay be dangerous because of the possibiility of tearing caused by violent expulsion of a large mass. Surgerymay be necessary if the bowel becomes totally obstructed.

References

• healthcentral.com

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It uses material from the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fecal+impaction Wikipedia article Fecal impaction.