Recently, a family member was feeling quite ill. They were complaining of stomach pain mainly on the lower right side. There was vomiting and cold sweats. Ultimately, the pain would range on scale from 1 to 10 between 7 and 8. My family member began sweating and vomiting throughout the day; as well as severe back pain. By the time my family member arrived from work it was clear they were ill. The pain was described as cramping and a sense of feeling dizzy.
I drove my family member to the hospital. I was afraid it was a gall bladder problem or a appendix problem. We went in and the doctor administered IV fluids for dehydration and Reglan for the nausea. He also gave a small does of Ativan for the anxiety.
The doctor palpated her body and ask how bad was the pain. The pain was coming and going. My family member appeared distended. And x-ray was ordered and blood work was done too verify if her white blood cell count (Leukocyte) was high. Usually indicating an infection of some sort.White blood cells are made in the bone marrow and protect the body against infection. If an infection develops, white blood cells attack and destroy the bacteria, virus, or other organism causing it.
To continue, when the x-ray was reviewed. It was noted that the entire intestine was full of fecal matter. He stated that the fecal matter had no where else to go except up; if not out from the rectum. Just like backed up plumbing.
So he instructed medication for frequent bowel movements and ordered his patient to stay home a day. He instructed plenty of water, fruit and fiber. Here is a Definition of five major factors that precipitate impaction from WebMd.
- Opioid analgesics. (pain relievers) slow the system down
- Prolonged inactivity. (sitting too long)
- Dietary alterations. (not enough fiber)
- Psychiatril illness. (some anti-depressants can slow down the system)
- Chronic use of drugs for constipation (laxitives)
Fecal Impaction can be very serious. People can die from fecal impaction. If you experience any of the symtoms go the emergency room right away.
Take care of your body by drinking plenty fluids, eating salads, anything green and fruits and vegetables, less meat, eat plenty cereal and oatmeal. (plenty of Fiber cereal) and exercise. Just walking will get your bowels moving. Drink fruit juice. Like the Dole cans of peaches or pineapple juice.
Another remedy that works well and is alternative is: Cascara Sagrada and Senna. These are just a few. Make sure you don't have food allergies before trying these remedies. Eating something very hot or eating something very cold will also help you go. A spoonful of Olive Oil, mineral oil, or drink warm prune juice.
To conclude. These are just a few ideas to help you maintain a healthy bowel. See your doctor if you notice changes. Go to this link for more information http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/ncicdr0000062736-impaction
Another remedy that works well and is alternative is: Cascara Sagrada and Senna. These are just a few. Make sure you don't have food allergies before trying these remedies. Eating something very hot or eating something very cold will also help you go. A spoonful of Olive Oil, mineral oil, or drink warm prune juice.
To conclude. These are just a few ideas to help you maintain a healthy bowel. See your doctor if you notice changes. Go to this link for more information http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/ncicdr0000062736-impaction
Written by Donna C. Ledesma
Copyright © 2010
All rights reserved
References from:
WebMd : http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/ncicdr0000062736-impaction, http://www.webmd.com/hw-popup/white-blood-cell-leukocyte
No comments:
Post a Comment