Intestinal Foreign Objects: Risks and Recovery - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Intestinal Foreign Objects: Risks and Recovery

Dear netizens： Please seek medical attention promptly!

Intestinal foreign body

Hello, Dr.
Chen.
On May 11, I inserted a small cucumber approximately 15 centimeters long into my rectum, and it has not been removed since.
My bowel movements seem to be normal, but I constantly feel like there is a foreign object in my intestines, and I often press on my abdomen.
Today, I noticed bright red blood during a bowel movement, but I still do not see the cucumber.
Will the cucumber eventually decompose and be expelled? How long might that take? During this time, could there be any changes in my intestines that I should be concerned about? I feel very embarrassed about this situation, and I am under a lot of psychological stress, fearing that something might happen to my body.
Please keep this a secret and help me! Thank you.

bian tai, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/13

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear netizens: Please seek medical attention promptly!

Reply Date: 2001/05/13

More Info

It’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious about your situation, and it’s important to address your concerns regarding the foreign object in your rectum. Ingesting or inserting foreign objects into the rectum can lead to various complications, and it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Risks of Retained Rectal Foreign Objects
1. Infection: The presence of a foreign object can lead to localized infections. The rectal area is home to various bacteria, and if the object causes any abrasions or tears in the mucosal lining, it can introduce bacteria into the tissue, leading to abscess formation or systemic infection.

2. Perforation: One of the most serious risks associated with retained foreign objects is perforation of the rectum or colon. This can occur if the object exerts pressure on the intestinal wall, leading to a tear. Perforation can result in peritonitis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate surgical intervention.

3. Obstruction: Depending on the size and shape of the object, it may cause a blockage in the intestines. This can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and constipation.

4. Hemorrhage: As you mentioned experiencing fresh red blood in your stool, this could indicate bleeding from the rectal mucosa, possibly due to irritation or injury caused by the foreign object. This is a concerning symptom that should not be ignored.

Recovery and Management
Regarding your question about whether the cucumber will decompose and be expelled naturally, it is possible for some organic materials to break down over time. However, the timeline for this process can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the object, the individual’s digestive health, and whether there are any complications.

1. Monitoring Symptoms: It’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience increased abdominal pain, fever, persistent bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, you should seek medical attention immediately.

2. Medical Evaluation: Given the potential risks associated with retained foreign objects, it is highly advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In many cases, endoscopic removal of the object may be necessary.

3. Psychological Support: It’s understandable to feel embarrassed about this situation, but remember that healthcare professionals are trained to handle such cases with confidentiality and without judgment. Seeking help is a crucial step in ensuring your health and well-being.

4. Avoiding Future Incidents: After addressing the current situation, it may be beneficial to reflect on the circumstances that led to this incident. If this behavior is recurrent, consider speaking with a mental health professional to explore underlying issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Conclusion
In summary, while there may be a chance that the cucumber could decompose and be expelled, the risks associated with leaving it in place are significant. The presence of fresh blood in your stool is particularly concerning and warrants immediate medical evaluation. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for assistance. Your health and safety are paramount, and seeking help is the best way to address this issue.

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