Vomiting material that originates from the intestines, colloquially known as “throwing up poop,” is a serious medical event requiring immediate attention. While uncommon, this phenomenon indicates a significant underlying health problem with grave implications for health.
What is Fecal Vomiting
Fecal vomiting, medically known as feculent or stercoraceous vomiting, describes the expulsion of intestinal contents through the mouth. This differs from typical vomiting, where stomach contents are expelled. The material vomited is of intestinal origin, not actual formed feces. This process occurs when the normal, one-way movement of digested material through the intestines is severely disrupted, forcing contents backward instead of downwards. Its occurrence signals a serious malfunction within the digestive tract.
Why This Condition Occurs
The primary reason for fecal vomiting is a severe obstruction within the intestines. This blockage prevents the normal passage of food, fluid, and gas, causing a buildup that eventually reverses the flow of contents. There are two main types of intestinal obstruction: mechanical and paralytic.
Mechanical obstruction involves a physical barrier that blocks the intestine. Common causes include adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue often formed after abdominal or pelvic surgery. Hernias, where a part of the intestine protrudes through a weakened area of muscle, can also trap and obstruct the bowel. Tumors or growths, particularly in the colon, are another significant cause of physical blockage. Intussusception (one segment of the intestine telescopes into another), volvulus (a twisting of the intestine), and severe constipation leading to impacted feces can also create a physical obstruction.
Paralytic obstruction, also known as adynamic ileus, differs because there is no physical blockage. Instead, the muscles and nerves responsible for the coordinated contractions that move contents through the intestines (peristalsis) temporarily stop functioning. This can occur due to factors like abdominal surgery, which commonly leads to a temporary slowdown of bowel movements. Certain medications, such as opioids, antidepressants, or antipsychotics, can also inhibit intestinal muscle activity. Electrolyte imbalances, severe infections like sepsis, or underlying neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, may also contribute to paralytic ileus. In these cases, the contents back up because the intestines lack the necessary movement to propel them forward.
Other Important Symptoms
Fecal vomiting rarely occurs in isolation; it is usually accompanied by other noticeable symptoms that indicate a severe gastrointestinal problem. These include:
Intense abdominal pain or cramping, often stemming from pressure and distension caused by the blockage.
A swollen or distended abdomen due to the accumulation of gas and fluids.
Nausea, often preceding the vomiting event.
Dehydration, resulting from fluid loss and inability to absorb fluids properly.
A distinct fecal odor on the breath.
Constipation or an inability to pass gas.
Immediate Medical Attention
Fecal vomiting is a medical emergency that requires immediate professional intervention. It is not a condition that can be managed at home, and delaying medical care can lead to severe, life-threatening complications. Untreated intestinal obstructions can result in tissue death in the bowel due to a cut-off blood supply, or even a rupture of the intestinal wall, leading to dangerous infections within the abdominal cavity.
Anyone experiencing this symptom should seek emergency medical help without delay. Calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room is the appropriate course of action. Diagnosis often involves imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to identify the location and cause of the obstruction. Treatment typically requires hospitalization and may include intravenous fluids to address dehydration, insertion of a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach, and potentially surgery to relieve the blockage. Timely medical intervention is essential for improving the outcome and preventing serious consequences.