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Stercoral Colitis
Battling severe constipation or unexplained abdominal pain? Stercoral colitis, a serious colon inflammation caused by impacted stool, demands prompt expert care. In Houston, Dr. Scott of GastroDoxs offers personalized diagnostics plus advanced treatments to restore digestive health and prevent complications.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Chronic constipation leading to hard, impacted stool
Limited mobility or prolonged bed rest
Use of certain medications, especially opioids
Low-fiber diet and inadequate fluid intake
Advanced age or weakened bowel muscles
Signs and Symptoms
Sharp abdominal cramps or pain
Bloating or visible swelling of the abdomen
Severe constipation or difficulty passing stool
Nausea and occasional vomiting
Low-grade fever
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Stercoral Colitis?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your bowel habits, diet, medication use (especially opioids), episodes of chronic constipation and any associated abdominal discomfort.
Physical Examination
He palpates your abdomen to assess for distension, localized tenderness or a palpable mass indicating impacted stool.
Blood Tests
We obtain a complete blood count to look for infection or inflammation, and a metabolic panel to check for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal X-ray or CT scan to visualize fecal impaction, colonic dilation, wall thickening and rule out perforation.
Contrast-enhanced CT when more detail is needed to identify complications such as abscess or ischemia.
Endoscopic Evaluation (if needed)
A flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy can directly visualize the colon, confirm impaction, and allow for therapeutic removal of hard stool.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Stercoral Colitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water daily
Establish a regular bathroom routine
Incorporate light exercise, such as daily walks, to stimulate bowel movement
2. Medications
Laxatives or stool softeners to ease stool passage
Enemas or suppositories for prompt relief
Antibiotics if there's evidence of infection or risk of complications
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic removal of impacted stool in severe cases
Interventional radiology-guided drainage if needed
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is stercoral colitis?
It's inflammation in the colon caused by hard stool pressing against the bowel wall.
What is the ICD-10 code for it?
It's usually listed as K56.41 (fecal impaction with colonic complications).
How is stercoral colitis treated?
Treatment includes diet and lifestyle changes, stool softeners or laxatives, antibiotics if there's an infection, and in severe cases endoscopic or radiologic procedures.
Do I always need antibiotics?
No. Antibiotics are only prescribed if tests indicate an infection or risk of perforation.
Can I prevent it?
Yes. A high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and consistent bowel habits help prevent fecal impaction.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience severe abdominal pain, prolonged constipation, nausea, vomiting, or fever, seek medical attention promptly.
Is stercoral colitis serious?
It can be. Without treatment, it may lead to ulcers, perforations, or infections. Early diagnosis and care reduce complications.
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