Which of the following best describes the condition known as fecal impaction?

Fecal impaction is best characterized by severe constipation that often requires medical intervention. This condition occurs when a large mass of stool becomes stuck in the colon or rectum, leading to a blockage that prevents normal bowel movements. Individuals suffering from fecal impaction may experience abdominal pain, bloating, and a feeling of fullness.

In contrast, regular bowel movements with discomfort do not equate to fecal impaction since they suggest that there is still some normal function, albeit with challenges. Frequent loose stools indicate diarrhea, which is not related to fecal impaction but rather suggests issues with the digestive process. Normal bowel functions imply that there are no complications or obstructions in the gastrointestinal system. Thus, the description of severe constipation requiring medical intervention accurately encapsulates the nature of fecal impaction.