Intestinal obstruction is a medical condition that occurs when there is a blockage in the small or large intestine, preventing food, fluids, and gas from moving through the digestive system.

Depending on the severity and location of the obstruction, it can cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and constipation.

Causes of Intestinal Obstruction

There are several different causes of intestinal obstruction, including:.

Adhesions

Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that form after surgery or infection. These bands can twist, kink, or pull on the intestine, causing a blockage.

Hernias

A hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. If the hernia becomes trapped or strangulated, it can cause an obstruction.

Tumors

Tumors can grow in or near the intestines, blocking the flow of food and fluids through the digestive system. Cancerous tumors are more likely to cause an obstruction than noncancerous growths.

Twisted Bowel

A twisted bowel, also known as a volvulus, occurs when a portion of the intestine becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply and causing an obstruction.

Impacted Stool

When stool becomes hard and impacted, it can cause a blockage in the large intestine. This type of obstruction is more common in older adults, people with chronic constipation, and those who have difficulty moving their bowels.

Symptoms of Intestinal Obstruction

The symptoms of intestinal obstruction can vary depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Common symptoms include:.

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating and a feeling of fullness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Loud bowel sounds
• Inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement
• Fever or chills
• Dehydration

Diagnosis of Intestinal Obstruction

To diagnose intestinal obstruction, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order one or more of the following tests:.

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X-ray

An abdominal X-ray can help your doctor visualize the blockage and determine its location.

CT Scan

A CT scan can provide more detailed images of the intestines and help your doctor identify the cause and extent of the obstruction.

Barium Enema

A barium enema involves injecting a contrast dye into the rectum, which then coats the lining of the large intestine and enables your doctor to see any blockages or abnormalities on an X-ray.

Treatment of Intestinal Obstruction

The treatment of intestinal obstruction will depend on its cause and severity. In some cases, the blockage may resolve on its own with rest and the use of laxatives or enemas to relieve constipation.

However, more severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Bowel Rest

If you have an intestinal obstruction, your doctor may recommend bowel rest, which involves fasting to give the intestine time to heal and reduce inflammation.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or help you pass stool or gas.

Enema or Laxative

If the obstruction is caused by impacted stool, an enema or laxative may be necessary to help you pass the stool.

Surgical Intervention

If the obstruction is caused by a tumor, hernia, or other physical blockage, surgery may be required to remove the obstruction and, if necessary, a portion of the intestine.

Preventing Intestinal Obstruction

While some causes of intestinal obstruction, such as adhesions or tumors, cannot be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition:.