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Stercoral Colitis
If chronic constipation leads to severe abdominal pain, bloating or infection, stercoral colitis may be the cause. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment—from diet changes to advanced procedures—to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
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
Ongoing constipation
Use of opioids or certain pain medications
Low-fiber diet and inadequate fluid intake
Prolonged bed rest or limited physical activity
Nerve or brain disorders that disrupt normal bowel function
Signs and Symptoms
Severe abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating or visible abdominal swelling
Constipation that persists despite home remedies
Fever, chills, or generalized weakness
Nausea or vomiting
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Stercoral Colitis and Epigastric Pain
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your symptoms—such as epigastric pain, bloating, persistent constipation—and reviews your medical history, including opioid use, dietary habits, and mobility factors.
Physical Examination
He palpates your abdomen, focusing on the epigastric and lower quadrants to detect tenderness, distension, or signs of stool impaction.
Imaging Studies
CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to identify hard stool buildup, colon wall thickening, and any risk of perforation.
Abdominal X-ray to assess overall stool burden and bowel dilation.
Laboratory Tests
Blood work evaluates white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, and checks electrolytes to rule out dehydration or systemic infection.
Stool Analysis (If Needed)
A stool sample may be tested to exclude infectious causes or assess gut flora imbalance contributing to colonic inflammation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for stercoral colitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat more fiber from fruits, veggies, and whole grains
Drink at least eight glasses of water daily
Try light exercise, such as walking
Stick to a regular bathroom schedule
2. Medications
Laxatives or stool softeners to ease stool passage
Probiotics to balance gut bacteria
Antibiotics if infection is found
Gentle pain relievers with fewer side effects
3. Procedures (If Needed)
Endoscopy - removes stool buildup without surgery
Colonoscopy under sedation - allows direct treatment of the colon
Hospital care - for severe cases needing close monitoring
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 causes stercoral colitis?
Stercoral colitis develops when hard, dry stool accumulates in the colon, putting pressure on its walls. Contributing factors include chronic constipation, opioid use, low-fiber diets, dehydration, and prolonged immobility.
What is the ICD-10 code for stercoral colitis?
The correct ICD-10 code for stercoral colitis is K52.89.
How is stercoral colitis diagnosed?
Dr. Nguyen reviews your medical history, performs a physical exam, and orders imaging such as a CT scan. Blood tests check for infection or inflammation, and stool studies may be used if needed.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment may include dietary and lifestyle changes, laxatives or stool softeners, probiotics, and antibiotics for infection. In some cases, endoscopic procedures or hospital care are required to remove impacted stool safely.
Can diet and lifestyle changes prevent stercoral colitis?
Yes. Increasing fiber intake, staying well hydrated, exercising lightly, and maintaining a regular bathroom routine help prevent chronic constipation and lower your risk of stercoral colitis.
When should I see a specialist in Houston?
If you experience persistent belly pain, bloating, or constipation lasting more than a week, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs to avoid complications.
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