Symptoms Of An Impacted Bowel

Fever

In rare cases, fecal impaction could cause a fever. This may occur in conjunction with general malaise and severe abdominal pain. Patients who believe they may have a fever should check their temperature at least once an hour. They may wish to keep a journal of their temperature readings to share with their doctor. If the fever is 102 degrees Fahrenheit or above, individuals should go to the emergency room. Immediate care is also necessary for patients who have fevers of less than 102 degrees Fahrenheit that continue for four days or more. Patients may consider taking an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen to reduce their fever. However, individuals should consult with their doctor before taking these, as they may not be appropriate if a bowel impaction is confirmed. Placing a cool cloth on the forehead could be soothing as the patient recovers from a fever.

Keep reading to discover more symptoms of an impacted bowel now.

Rapid Heart Rate

A rapid heart rate commonly develops with advanced fecal impactions. Doctors define a rapid heartbeat as one that is higher than one hundred beats per minute. Patients with a rapid heart rate may feel dizzy. They could also experience chest pain and heart palpitations. Individuals with a rapid heartbeat should note the time this symptom begins and seek emergency medical attention if their heart rate is 160 or higher. They should also get emergency attention if they have a heart rate between one hundred and 150 accompanied by pain, feeling faint, or shortness of breath.

To assess the heart rate, doctors will perform an electrocardiogram. Patients may also need to have an echocardiogram or other cardiac imaging studies. Usually, patients who have an elevated heart rate as a result of an impacted bowel see their heart rate return to normal after the impaction is treated. In some cases, individuals may need to have a follow-up appointment with a cardiologist for more detailed investigations.