Impaction is a medical term that refers to a condition in which a solid or fluid substance becomes lodged or stuck in a body passage, thereby obstructing the normal flow or movement of bodily substances. The term is commonly used in the context of the digestive system, respiratory system, and urinary tract.
In the digestive system, impaction often occurs when a hard mass of undigested food or waste material gets trapped in the intestines, causing blockage and hindering the passage of stool. This can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and even bowel obstruction if left untreated.
Respiratory impaction refers to a situation where foreign objects, such as food particles or other substances, become lodged in the airways, obstructing the normal flow of air and leading to breathing difficulties. This can happen when inhaling small objects or as a result of medical conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis.
Urinary impaction, on the other hand, involves the blockage or obstruction of the urinary tract, usually by kidney stones or blood clots. This can cause severe pain and discomfort, as well as problems with urination, such as frequent urination, urinary retention, or urine leakage.
Overall, impaction is a term used to describe the obstruction or blockage of different body passages, which can lead to significant discomfort, pain, and potential complications if not promptly resolved.
