Fecal Impaction

Fecal or intestinal impaction occurs when a mass of hardened stool builds up and remains retained in the intestine, hindering its normal expulsion.

Frequent symptoms: absence of bowel movements for several days, abdominal pain or bloating, a feeling of incomplete evacuation and, at times, leakage of liquid stool around the mass.

Common causes: prolonged constipation, low intake of fluids or fiber, little physical activity and some conditions that slow down the intestine.

When to see a doctor? If there are several days without a bowel movement, intense abdominal pain or vomiting, a prompt evaluation is advisable. The gastroenterologist studies disorders of the digestive system, in children the pediatric gastroenterologist or the pediatrician steps in, and the general practitioner can guide the first care.