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Fecal Impaction
Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis and treatment for fecal impaction, a serious form of constipation where hard stool blocks the rectum. Learn about causes, symptoms, personalized therapies, prevention strategies to restore comfort and digestive health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Chronic constipation
Insufficient fluid intake
Low-fiber diet
Use of certain medications (e.g., painkillers, antacids)
Nerve disorders or recent surgery
Limited mobility or prolonged bed rest
Dehydration, especially in hot climates like Houston
Signs and Symptoms
Severe lower abdominal pain or cramps
Feeling the urge to go without passing stool
Abdominal swelling or hardness
Nausea or loss of appetite
Leakage of liquid stool around the blockage
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Fecal Impaction?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He begins by asking detailed questions about your bowel habits, duration and intensity of epigastric discomfort, fluid intake, diet, and any medications (especially opioids or antacids) that may contribute to impaction.
Physical Examination
Dr. Nguyen performs a gentle abdominal exam to assess for bloating or tenderness, followed by a careful digital rectal examination to feel for hard, impacted stool in the rectum.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal X-ray to visualize the location and size of the fecal mass.
Ultrasound if additional information is needed on bowel wall or adjacent organs.
Laboratory Tests (If Indicated)
Blood work may be ordered to check for dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or signs of infection if you present with fever or significant systemic symptoms.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for fecal impaction.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Stay well hydrated, especially during hot Houston days
Add light exercise to stimulate healthy bowel function
2. Medications
Stool softeners to ease passage of hard stool
Osmotic laxatives to draw water into the colon
Enemas or suppositories for rapid relief of blockage
3. In-Clinic Procedures
Manual disimpaction under local anesthesia for direct clearance
Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to remove impacted stool
Imaging-guided interventions when needed to ensure safety
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between constipation and fecal impaction?
Constipation involves hard or infrequent stools, while fecal impaction is a solid mass of stool that cannot be passed on its own.
What does ICD-10 code K56.41 mean?
It's the medical classification code for fecal impaction used for records and insurance purposes.
What are early signs of impaction?
Early signs include bloating, cramping, and straining that feel more intense than normal constipation.
Can I treat this at home?
Mild cases may improve with increased water, fiber, and over-the-counter laxatives. If you can't pass stool within 1-2 days, contact your doctor.
Does manual disimpaction hurt?
Dr. Nguyen uses numbing medication to minimize discomfort. You may feel pressure but shouldn't experience strong pain.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients feel better within a few days after treatment, though individual recovery times may vary.
When should I go to the emergency room?
Seek emergency care if you have severe abdominal pain with fever, persistent vomiting, or cannot keep food or liquids down.
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