What is fecal impaction?
Fecal impaction is the result of severe constipation, when you're unable to regularly pass poop (stool or feces) and it backs up inside your large intestine (colon). Fecal impaction can also be defined by your inability to sense and respond to the presence of stool in your rectum.
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Who does fecal impaction affect?
Fecal impaction occurs in all age groups but is most common in:
- The elderly.
- Children.
- People who have mobility issues.
- People with neuropsychiatric disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
What's the difference between fecal impaction and constipation?
Constipation is when it's difficult to poop. Constant and untreated constipation causes fecal impaction, when there's a buildup of poop that you're unable to naturally pass.
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How common is fecal impaction?
Nearly half of all elderly people in nursing homes have fecal impaction. This is the result of decreased mobility, neurological disorders and/or a side effect from medications.
How does fecal impaction affect my body?
Fecal impaction causes discomfort in your body due to gastrointestinal pressure from waste buildup. Discomfort from the pressure includes:
- Pain in your abdomen and/or lower back.
- Feeling like your abdomen is swollen (bloated).
- Having the need to poop but can’t.
- Stomachache like you’re full and/or have a loss of appetite.
- Lethargic or tired.
If left untreated, fecal impaction can cause ulcers, colitis or obstruction to your colon, which can be fatal.
