Stercoral Colitis

What Is Stercoral Colitis?

Stercoral colitis is a condition where hard stool puts pressure on the large intestine. This pressure can lead to inflammation, ulcers, or even tears in the colon wall. If not treated early, it may cause serious infections and other complications.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can appear slowly or suddenly. Many patients may notice:

• Strong pain or cramping in the belly
• Bloating or nausea
• No bowel movements for several days
• Mild fever
• Blood in the stool

Causes

This condition often begins with long-term constipation and stool buildup. Other factors that increase risk include:

• Low-fiber diet
• Insufficient water intake
• Prolonged periods of inactivity
• Medications that slow bowel movements (e.g., opioids)
• Dehydration and mineral imbalances

Treatment Options for Stercoral Colitis in Houston

Treatment includes acute management and preventive care:

• Bowel rest: Avoid solid foods temporarily and use clear liquids (broth, water, electrolyte drinks) to relieve colonic pressure.
• Laxatives & stool softeners: Medications such as polyethylene glycol or docusate sodium help soften hardened stool and ease passage.
• Intravenous fluids: IV hydration corrects dehydration, restores electrolyte balance, and supports overall recovery.
• Antibiotic therapy: Targeted antibiotics are prescribed if imaging or labs indicate infection or risk of bacterial overgrowth.
• Imaging & monitoring: Regular CT scans, blood tests, and physical exams track inflammation, detect complications, and guide treatment adjustments.
• Surgical intervention: Emergency resection of the affected colon segment is performed if there are tears, perforations, or necrotic tissue to prevent life-threatening infection.
• Long-term follow-up: Personalized plans emphasize a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, regular activity, and scheduled check-ups to reduce recurrence risk.