Ingesting feces, a behavior known as coprophagia, introduces an immediate and significant risk of illness. Fecal matter is composed of undigested food, metabolic byproducts, and a large concentration of microorganisms, many of which are harmful if swallowed. While the severity of the reaction can vary based on the amount and the specific contaminants present, the definitive answer is that eating feces has a high potential to cause a person to become sick. The risk is high regardless of whether the source is human or animal.
Pathogens and Contaminants Found in Feces
Feces are a vehicle for the spread of disease because they contain a dense population of infectious microorganisms shed from the intestines. These contaminants fall into three main categories: bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Bacteria like Salmonella, Campylobacter, and various strains of E. coli are commonly found and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Viruses such as Norovirus and Rotavirus are highly contagious and frequently transmitted through the fecal-oral route, as is Hepatitis A. Parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium are protozoans that form hardy cysts capable of surviving outside the body for extended periods.
Health Outcomes of Accidental Ingestion
The ingestion of these microbes commonly results in acute gastrointestinal illnesses that mimic severe food poisoning. Initial symptoms often involve nausea and vomiting, followed by diarrhea and abdominal cramping. A fever may also develop as the body’s immune system responds to the invading pathogens. Severe and persistent vomiting and diarrhea greatly increase the risk of dehydration, a serious complication that occurs when the body loses fluids and electrolytes. In rarer scenarios, exposure to a pathogen like Hepatitis A can lead to more systemic illness, potentially causing liver toxicity.
Does the Source of Feces Change the Risk?
While all feces carry a risk of infection, the specific danger is influenced by the source. Human feces are generally the most dangerous to other humans because they are more likely to contain human-adapted pathogens, such as certain strains of Norovirus or Hepatitis A, which are highly virulent to people. Feces from pets and wildlife introduce a range of zoonotic, or animal-origin, pathogens. For instance, cat feces can carry Toxoplasma gondii, while dog feces are a common source of Campylobacter and roundworm eggs. However, the general risk of bacterial gastroenteritis from common pathogens like Salmonella and Giardia remains constant regardless of whether the source is human or animal.
Actionable Steps Following Exposure
If accidental ingestion of feces occurs, the first immediate step is to practice thorough oral and hand hygiene. The mouth should be rinsed immediately and repeatedly, and a small amount of water can be given to drink. Hands and any exposed skin should be washed meticulously with soap and water to prevent further spread of contaminants.
The next step involves close observation for the onset of symptoms, which usually appear within a few hours to a couple of days. Symptoms to monitor include persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or the development of a fever. If symptoms are severe, such as bloody diarrhea, signs of severe dehydration, or if the person is lethargic or confused, medical attention should be sought immediately. For non-severe exposures, contacting a local poison control center or healthcare provider is advisable to discuss the need for testing or prophylactic treatment.