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Fecal Impaction

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Definition

A fecal impaction is a large mass of dry, hard stool that can develop in the rectum due to chronic constipation. This mass may be so hard that it cannot come out of the body. Watery stool from higher in the bowel may move around the mass and leak out, causing soiling or diarrhea.

Symptoms

  • Abdominal cramping
  • Frequent straining with passage of liquid
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Small, semi-formed stools
  • Sudden, watery diarrhea in someone who has chronic constipation
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