Can you vomit faeces?

The human body is a remarkable machine, capable of incredible things, but sometimes it can also exhibit peculiar and confusing symptoms. One such phenomenon is feculent vomiting or vomiting poo! A condition where individuals expel faecal matter from their digestive tract through their mouths. While this may sound like something out of a horror movie, it is a real medical condition that requires careful attention and understanding.

What is feculent vomiting?

Feculent vomiting, also known as faecal vomiting or stercoraceous vomiting, is the expulsion of faecal matter through the mouth. This unusual symptom is often associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, mechanical intestinal obstructions, and even paralytic obstruction. It is a clear indication that something is amiss within the digestive system, and it is crucial to understand the underlying causes and implications of this condition.

Causes of feculent vomiting

The primary causes of feculent vomiting can be divided into two main categories: mechanical intestinal obstruction and paralytic obstruction.

Mechanical intestinal obstruction

Mechanical intestinal obstruction is the most common cause of feculent vomiting. This occurs when there is a physical blockage or obstruction, commonly within the small intestines, preventing the normal flow of digested material. This blockage can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Intestinal adhesions or scar tissue
• Hernias
• Tumours or growths
• Intussusception (where one part of the intestine slides into another)
• Gallstones or kidney stones

In these cases, the intestinal contents are unable to pass through the obstruction, leading to a buildup of pressure and the eventual expulsion of faecal matter through the mouth.

Paralytic obstruction

Paralytic obstruction, also known as adynamic ileus, is another potential cause of feculent vomiting. This condition occurs when the intestinal muscles become paralysed or unable to function properly, preventing the normal movement of digested material. Paralytic obstruction can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antidepressants, antipsychotics)
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Metabolic disorders
• Neurological conditions
• Abdominal surgeries

In these cases, the intestinal contents are unable to move forward, leading to a buildup of pressure and the eventual expulsion of faecal matter through the mouth.

Other causes include:

• Crohn’s Disease
• Ulcerative colitis

Symptoms of feculent vomiting

The common symptom of feculent vomiting is the expulsion of faecal matter through the mouth. This can be accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as:

• Abdominal pain, cramping pain
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dehydration

In some cases, individuals may also experience fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms depending on the underlying cause.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of feculent vomiting often requires a full medical evaluation. Healthcare providers may use a combination of the following diagnostic tests:

• Physical examination: The healthcare provider will perform a thorough physical examination, including palpation of the abdomen and a rectal examination
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to identify any physical obstructions or abnormalities within the digestive system
• Laboratory tests: Blood tests, electrolyte panels, and other laboratory analyses may be performed to assess the overall health and functioning of the digestive system
• Endoscopic procedures: In some cases, healthcare providers may use endoscopic techniques, such as colonoscopy or upper endoscopy, to directly visualise the gastrointestinal tract and identify any underlying issues

Treatment options

The treatment for feculent vomiting will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In general, the primary goals of treatment are to:

• Address the underlying cause: This may involve surgical interventions to remove physical obstructions, medication adjustments to correct paralytic obstruction, or other targeted treatments based on the specific diagnosis
• Provide supportive care: Patients may require intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, and other supportive measures to address dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Manage symptoms: Healthcare providers may prescribe medications such as laxatives to relieve constipation

It is crucial to seek prompt medical advice if feculent vomiting occurs, as it can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

Outlook

The outlook for individuals with feculent vomiting largely depends on the underlying cause and the timeliness of treatment. If the underlying condition is successfully addressed, the outcome is generally good. However, if the condition is left untreated or the underlying cause is not resolved, it can lead to severe complications, such as:

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Malnutrition
• Sepsis (life-threatening infection)
• Bowel perforation or necrosis
• Respiratory distress
• Cardiac complications

In some cases, feculent vomiting can even be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as cancer or a severe neurological disorder. Therefore, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention and follow the recommended treatment plan.

Prevention

While the prevention of feculent vomiting may not always be possible, there are some steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of this condition:

• Maintain a healthy digestive system: Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly can help support the overall health and function of the digestive system
• Manage underlying conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions that may contribute to feculent vomiting, such as intestinal obstructions or neurological disorders, should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage these conditions effectively
• Be cautious with medications: Individuals taking medications that can potentially cause paralytic obstruction should be vigilant and report any gastrointestinal symptoms to their healthcare providers
• Seek prompt medical attention: If feculent vomiting occurs, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention to identify and address the underlying cause

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential complications of feculent vomiting, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their digestive health and seek timely medical intervention if this unusual and concerning condition arises.

Conclusion

Feculent vomiting is a rare and unsettling condition that can have serious implications for an individual’s health. By understanding the underlying causes, recognising the symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention, individuals can take steps to address this condition and minimise the risk of severe complications. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in accurately diagnosing and effectively treating feculent vomiting, ensuring the best possible outcomes for those affected by this unique and challenging medical phenomenon.

Sources

• Feculent vomiting – The American Journal of Surgery
• Feculent vomiting (Concept Id: C3874311) – MedGen – NCBI