What Should You Know About Feculent Vomiting?

The vomit may have a distinctly foul, stool-like odour or contain dark material. This description does not confirm a diagnosis, but it can occur when intestinal contents cannot move forward normally.

A blockage in the small or large bowel can cause food, fluid, and digestive contents to build up behind the narrowed or closed area. As pressure rises, vomiting may develop. Scar tissue after abdominal surgery, a hernia, twisting of the bowel, inflammation, or another physical narrowing can be involved.

Other illnesses can cause repeated vomiting and a strong odour without a bowel obstruction. The smell and appearance alone cannot distinguish these causes. Severe or persistent vomiting can also lead to dehydration and changes in the body's salts.

If this is happening now, contact emergency medical services or go to an emergency department. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, confused, or very unwell. Avoid solid food until a clinician advises you, and do not take laxatives to force bowel movement when obstruction is possible.

Tell the clinician when the vomiting began, its colour and smell, whether you have passed stool or gas, and whether you have had abdominal surgery, a hernia, or a recent illness. Bring a list of medicines and mention any chance of pregnancy.

Seek emergency care immediately for a swollen or rigid abdomen, severe or worsening pain, repeated vomiting, blood or coffee-ground material in vomit, inability to keep fluids down, fainting, confusion, fever with marked weakness, or no passage of stool or gas. These features can indicate a serious abdominal problem or significant dehydration.

Even without these features, stool-smelling vomit should not be managed at home for several days. A clinician may examine your abdomen, check hydration, and arrange tests to identify the cause and decide whether hospital treatment is needed.

Ask: Could a bowel blockage explain these symptoms? Which tests do I need? Should I stop any medicines or food for now? How can I replace fluids safely? What changes should prompt immediate reassessment?