Constipation and fecal impaction are not the same thing. Many people think they are the same. While both involve the intestines and fecal matter, they are two different problems that need to be treated differently.
Constipation is a term used to describe slow moving feces or stool through the intestines. The longer it takes for feces to be excreted from the body, the drier and harder it will be. Symptoms of constipation include passing small, dry, hard stools, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, straining, fatigue, bad breath, skin rashes, abdominal pain, hemorrhoids, and irregular bowel movements.
Fecal impaction is the term used to describe a large amount of hard stool or fecal mass that is "stuck" in the rectum. Symptoms of fecal impaction may be similar to those of constipation. However, in addition to these symptoms, an individual may experience bladder problems, back pain, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, abdominal bloating, rapid heartbeat, sweating, fever, dizziness, and even high or low blood pressure. Individuals who have fecal impaction may also experience very explosive diarrhea. This diarrhea does not remove the blockage, it moves around the blockage.
Constipation can be very uncomfortable and bothersome. Fecal impaction is much more dangerous than constipation. Fecal impaction can be life-threatening. Fecal impaction that is not treated can get worse and the individual could die from it.
Constipation can be caused by many things, including not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough fluids, lack of exercise, certain medications, lifestyle or routine changes, ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, laxative a b u se, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, travel, and various other reasons.
Stool blockage can be caused by ignoring constipation, pain medication, illness, and long-term use of laxatives. Many people are surprised to learn that long-term use of stimulant laxatives can lead to stool blockage, but it is true. With long-term use, the colon can become dependent on the laxative to help it evacuate. Constipation and fecal blockage can occur when the colon has been exposed to laxatives and stool softeners for a period of time and then does not receive the expected dose. Simply put, long-term use of laxatives can cause your body to forget how to move and get rid of stool on its own.
If constipation is not addressed and an individual becomes blocked in the stool, it cannot be treated as easily. Fecal impactions in the anus must be manually removed by a doctor.
Constipation should be treated at its onset to prevent fecal impaction. Steps to relieve constipation may include dietary changes, drinking adequate amounts of water, exercise, and colon cleansing. Tips to help you evacuate your stool include the following:
When you are sitting in a washroom, it is important that you do not hold your breath as you try to pass the stool. A good tip for constipation is to breathe through your nose and out through your mouth. Holding your breath while trying to cough can actually hinder the elimination process by closing the bottom.
Learn to push without straining. When you place your feet on the stool, simply lean forward and breathe normally. This will allow your abdominal muscles to push the stool out without straining. You're basically pushing from the waist up.
You should always respond to any sign that your bowels want to move. Delaying or delaying a bowel movement can make constipation worse. No matter where you are, if you feel like your bowels want to move, find a bathroom.
Don't let constipation get the better of you. Be proactive and take the necessary steps to keep your body's digestive system healthy and running smoothly.
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