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Fecal Impaction

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition

Fecal Impaction

Definition

Fecal impaction is when stool (poop) cannot leave the body. Without treatment, it can lead to other problems.

The Digestive Pathway.

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Causes

Fecal impaction is caused by:

  • Stool (poop) that is too large, hard, and dry to pass, or
  • Weak intestine muscles

Risk Factors

Fecal impaction is more common in people over 65 years old and toddlers. Other things that raise the risk are:

  • Long-term constipation
  • Withholding stool (poop)—a common cause in children
  • A history of fecal impaction
  • Medicines such as:
    • Certain blood pressure medicines
    • Narcotics
    • Antipsychotics and tricyclic antidepressants
    • Iron supplements
  • A diet that is low in fiber and fluids
  • Not being physically active
  • Medical problems that make it hard to pass stools

Symptoms

Symptoms of fecal impaction may include:

  • Straining, with problems passing stools
  • Belly pain or rectal discomfort
  • Belly swelling
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Leaking stool or sudden episodes of watery stool
  • Lack of hunger
  • Problems passing urine (pee), or leaking urine
  • Headache, lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, or problems breathing

Older people and those with certain brain problems may also have:

  • More problems thinking
  • Restlessness

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. This may include a rectal exam with a gloved finger. Blood tests may also be done.

Images can show how severe the problem is. The doctor may look at the intestines with:

Treatment

The goals are to remove the stuck stool and treat underlying causes. Options are:

Medicines to help pass the stool, such as:

  • Stool softeners or laxatives taken by mouth
  • Suppositories—medicine inserted into the rectum

Medicines may be needed until the bowel works well again.

The doctor may also remove the stool. Options are:

  • Removal by gloved hand
  • An enema—fluid is injected into the large intestine
  • Surgery—rarely needed

Prevention

Fecal impaction can often be prevented with:

  • A diet rich in fiber and fluids
  • Not using medicines that can cause problems passing stool
  • Regular physical activity
  • Regular bowel habits
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

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References

  • Constipation and impaction. Harvard Health Publishing website. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/constipation-and-impaction-a-to-z .
  • Constipation in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/constipation-in-adults
  • Constipation in children. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/constipation-in-children .
  • Gastrointestinal complications. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/constipation/gi-complications-pdq#section/_15.
  • Louwagie V, Steinman MD, Wang MH. Fecal impaction in adults. JAAPA. 2023;36(5):19-22.

Contributors

  • April Scott, NP
Last Updated:
2023-09-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.