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Stercoral Colitis Doctor - Dr. Scott Liu
Have the worst constipation or the pain in the abdomen that is difficult to explain? The stercoral colitis is a severe inflammation of the colon that is caused by impaction stool, and it requires timely attention by experts. Dr. Scott of GastroDoxs in Houston offers individualized diagnostics and treatment of the digestive system in order to restore health and avoid 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 examines your bowel functions, nutrition, use of medication (opioids in particular), any cases of chronic constipation and the presence of abdominal pain.
Physical Examination
In order to measure distension, or localized tenderness or palpable mass of affected stool he palpates your abdomen.
Blood Tests
We also get a complete blood count to ensure we check on an infection or inflammation and a metabolic panel to ensure we examine dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
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)
The colon can be direct viewed with a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, to establish the presence of impaction, and therapeutic removal of hard stool.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Stercoral Colitis.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Enhance the consumption of fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
Take 6-8 glasses of water in one day.
Make a habit of using the bathroom.
Add light exercise, e.g. walks daily to get bowel in motion.
Medications
Stool softeners or laxatives to facilitate passing of stool.
Suppositories or enemas to provide instant relief.
Antibiotics in case it has an indication of infection or a threat of complication.
Minimal or high Technology Procedures
Extreme cases in endoscopic excision of impacted stool.
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 is inflammation of the colon which results due to hard stool being applied to pressure against the bowel wall.
What is the ICD-10 code for it?
It is normally given listed as K56.41 (fecal impaction with colonic complications).
What is the treatment of stercoral colitis?
There is diet and lifestyle modification treatment, stool softeners or laxatives, antibiotics in case of infection and severe cases are treated with endoscopic or radiologic procedures.
Do I always need antibiotics?
No. Antibiotics will be given when the tests show an infection or danger of perforation.
Can I prevent it?
Yes. Fecal impaction is prevented by high-fiber diet, proper hydration, physical activity and effective bowel movements.
When should I see a doctor?
In case of severe abdominal pains, constipation which takes a long time, nausea, vomiting or fever, it is important to see the doctor as soon as possible.
Is stercoral colitis severe?
It can be. In the absence of treatment, it can create ulcers, perforations or infections. Complications are minimized by early diagnosis and treatment.
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