A fecal impaction is a blockage in the colon caused by long-term constipation.This sounds serious, but it is a condition that can be treated.A variety of methods can be used by your doctor to remove the blockage.You can prevent a reoccurrence by following a diet and exercise regimen.
Step 1: If you have symptoms of a bowel impaction, contact your doctor.
If you suspect you have a fecal impaction, make an appointment as soon as possible.Since bowel impaction can be caused by serious conditions, such as obstruction or bleeding, it is important that you have it checked out right away.Abdominal pain after meals, persistent urge to have a bowel movement, fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, nausea, vomiting, headaches, poor appetite, and weight loss are some of the symptoms that could indicate an impaction.As liquid stool goes around the block, you may experience scurvy.If you experience these symptoms, you should seek emergency medical help.
Step 2: If you have an impaction, let the doctor examine you.
The doctor will usually ask about your symptoms when testing for an impaction.They will be able to see hard spots around your abdomen.If you have a rectal exam, the doctor may give it to you.An x-ray may be ordered by the doctor to confirm if you have a problem.If the doctor can't see the impaction, they may order a colonoscopy.They may do one after the impaction if there are other bowel problems that could have caused it.
Step 3: You should take stool softeners as directed by your doctor.
Your doctor may try to get you to have a bowel movement with stool softeners.They draw more water into your large intestine to try and remove the obstruction.The first step in treating the impaction is to take the medication prescribed by your doctor.Take the medication with a full glass of water and expect a bowel movement within a few hours.If the blockage is large enough, the doctor may give you a prescription-strength medicine.Laxative use can cause impactions since your body gradually gets used to it.The doctor may skip this step if your impaction is caused by laxative use.
Step 4: If you can't swallow a pill, try a suppository.
A suppository is inserted into the rectum instead of being swallowed.This is a good way to remove the impaction if you have trouble taking pills.Put the package in the water.Put it in your rectum by laying on your side.Wait at least 15 minutes for a bowel movement.Follow your doctor's instructions if you want to use the suppository safely.After the suppository is inserted, wash your hands.You can keep your hands clean by wearing rubber gloves.
Step 5: You can use an enema.
The doctor will probably tell you to use an enema at home if the stool softener doesn't work.Your rectum can be flushed out with enemas.Pick the type that your doctor tells you to use and follow the instructions to administer it properly.Different brands of enema have the same instructions.Lie on your side and insert the tube into your rectum after filling the enema bag.Stay still for 10 minutes after pumping out all the fluid.You can go to the bathroom after that.The doctor may tell you to take a stool softener or suppository with the enema to make sure the problem is solved.Enemas do not cause pain.There is nothing to be afraid of, even if you find it uncomfortable.
Step 6: The doctor can physically remove the obstruction.
Your doctor may break it up manually if the problem is serious.The doctor will insert lubricated fingers into your colon and gradually remove the obstruction.The doctor will give you further instructions on how to clear the rest of the blocked area.The doctor may try to remove the entire obstruction at once, or try and remove a little at a time and put you on stool softeners.Follow the directions they give you.The doctor could use enemas to remove the rest of the impaction.It is possible that you have an oral medication to take after using enemas.
Step 7: You need to eat at least 25 g of fiber a day.
Constipation can be caused by a low-fiber diet.The recommended amount of fiber is 25-30 g a day.It is best to change your diet and get most of your fiber from food, but you can also increase your daily intake with a fiber supplement.leafy green vegetables, beans, berries, potatoes with the skin left on, peas, and nuts are some of the best sources of natural fiber.You should include a serving of these with every meal.White products like bread and rice can be replaced with whole wheat products for a big boost in fiber.It's a good idea to avoid foods that are low in fiber.Red meat, alcohol, and processed foods are high in saturated fat.
Step 8: Your stool should move through your bowel easily if you stay hydrated.
Dehydration can cause a variety of problems.If you want to prevent this, drink the recommended amount of water every day.Don't add calories or sugars to your diet by drinking as much plain water or seltzer as possible.Sports drinks and soda are not good for you.If it's hot out, increase your water intake.Your body needs more fluids.
Step 9: 5 days a week is enough to keep your GI tract moving.
Staying immobile can slow down your body's ability to digest food.If you want to keep your digestion active, try to get 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a week.It stimulates digestion by drawing blood and nutrition to your internal organs.The best way to keep your bicyle moving is through running, swimming, or playing sports.Resistance workouts like weight- lifting are good for your health, but not as much as you might think.You don't need to be a marathon runner to stay active.A daily walk is great for your health.
Step 10: If you are immobile, take a stool softener regularly.
You may not be able to stay active if you are older or disabled.It's possible to keep your digestion active with a regular stool softener.All medications should be taken according to the instructions.Before you start taking stool softeners, speak with your doctor.The drug can interact with other drugs.
Step 11: If your doctor tells you to stop taking the medication, ask for it to be switched off.
It's possible that certain medications are causing your symptoms.If any of your medications could interfere with your digestion, talk to your doctor.If possible, your doctor could switch you off of these drugs.Opioid painkillers, antidepressants, some blood pressure medications, and incontinence medications are some of the common medications that cause constipation.If your doctor can't switch you off your medication, then you need to eat more fiber, stay active, and drink more water.All your medication should be taken as directed.Taking too much could cause a problem.
Step 12: If you want to stay on schedule, use the bathroom.
Constipation and impactions can be caused by resisting the urge to use the bathroom.If you feel like you have to have a bowel movement, use the bathroom.This helps regulate your body.You might not use the bathroom in public or at work because you don't want to offend anyone.Try to get over your fear by going to a more private bathroom at quieter times of the day.You may not feel the sensation anymore if you continuously resist having a bowel movement.This is what causes nausea.
Step 13: Try to have a bowel movement at the same time every day.
Your bowels are trained to leave on a regular schedule if you attempt a bowel movement at the same time every day.It helps keep your bicyle regular.The most popular time to have a bowel movement is right after breakfast.Coffee stimulates the bowels in the morning and this is a good time to drink it.If you don't feel like you have to go, go to the bathroom at the same time.This tells your bowels that it's time to leave.
Step 14: Allow 10 minutes for a bowel movement.
Constipation can be caused by incomplete emptying.Allow at least 10 minutes for you to be finished in the bathroom.Try to keep this time in your schedule.If you don't have time to use the bathroom when you run to work, try waking up 15-20 minutes earlier.