Accidental ingestion of fecal matter can occur through contaminated food or children's natural curiosity. While this scenario might be alarming, it generally doesn't result in a severe medical emergency. Here’s a detailed overview of what can happen if you ingest feces and the recommended steps for care.

According to health experts, including the Illinois Poison Center, the consumption of feces is categorized as “minimally toxic.” However, fecal matter contains bacteria typically found in the intestines. These bacteria are not harmful when contained within the digestive system but can pose a risk when ingested. Common bacteria found in feces include:

• Campylobacter
• E. coli
• Salmonella
• Shigella

Ingesting these bacteria can lead to a range of symptoms similar to food poisoning, which may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever

In addition to bacteria, parasites and viruses such as hepatitis A and hepatitis E can also be spread through fecal matter. If larger amounts are ingested, the risk of adverse symptoms increases. Accidental ingestion through contaminated foods may result in symptoms akin to food poisoning. Fortunately, most symptoms resolve with time and increased fluid intake.

It’s not uncommon for children to accidentally ingest their own feces or that of pets like dogs or cats. Generally, this is not a cause for serious alarm; however, there are specific actions parents and caregivers should take:

• Provide the child with water to keep them hydrated.
• Thoroughly wash their hands and face.
• Monitor for symptoms similar to food poisoning.

These symptoms may include:

• Diarrhea
• Low-grade fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting

If you notice concerning symptoms, such as persistent vomiting or diarrhea, it’s advisable to contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Additionally, consulting with your child's pediatrician may be necessary, especially if animal feces were involved, as they may contain parasites like roundworms.

Interestingly, while ingesting feces is not recommended, there are therapeutic uses for fecal matter in the form of fecal transplantation. Also known as bacteriotherapy, this procedure is primarily used to treat C. difficile colitis, a condition characterized by severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever, often emerging from prolonged antibiotic use. The rationale behind this treatment is that a successful fecal transplant can restore healthy intestinal flora that combats C. difficile infections.

During this medical procedure, a donor's feces are carefully screened for harmful organisms. The recipient undergoes a bowel preparation before the fecal matter is introduced into their colon using a colonoscope. This method is tightly regulated and involves substantial testing and monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy. It’s crucial to note that individuals with C. difficile should not consume feces casually; interventions like fecal transplantation are conducted in controlled environments.

While ingesting feces may not typically lead to severe health issues, there are critical situations that necessitate immediate medical attention. Seek professional help if you or someone else experiences any of the following after ingesting fecal matter:

• Signs of dehydration
• Blood in stool or bloody diarrhea
• Sudden breathing difficulties
• Disorientation or confusion

If any of these symptoms arise, it's essential to call 911 or seek urgent medical care. In other cases, maintaining close observation will help ensure that no further adverse reactions develop.