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Fecal impaction

Alternative Names:

Impaction of the bowels

Symptoms:

Sudden, watery diarrhea in someone who has chronic constipation is usually an indication of a fecal impaction. Other symptoms include frequent straining with passage of liquid or small, semi-formed stools, or abdominal cramping and discomfort.

Signs and tests:

The health care provider will examine your stomach area and rectum. The rectal exam will reveal a hard mass of dry stool within the rectum.

If there has been a recent change in your bowel habits, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to evaluate for colon or rectal cancer.

Digestive system

Digestive system

Digestive system organs

Digestive system organs

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