Common enema solutions include soap suds, water, and saline. Bisacodyl and glycerin suppositories work as local irritants. Misoprostol is an effective agent for treating constipation but is expensive. Fecal Impaction Firm, immobile mass of stool, most often in the rectum but may also occur in sigmoid or descending colon. Most common in elderly, inactive patients.
Differential diagnosis is similar to that for constipation.
Impaction may present with involuntary leakage of stool around the impaction, which may be mistaken for diarrhea. May have fever, symptoms of acute abdomen, or mental status changes. Mineral oil can be given orally if there is no danger of aspiration. All rights reserved.