About Bowel Obstruction
The root causes of intestinal obstruction can be different and include:
- Scar tissue in the abdomen: Scar tissue forms after surgery or injury and can block parts of the intestines.
- Twisting of the intestines: When the intestines twist, it can block the passage of food and liquids.
- Swallowed objects: Items that are accidentally swallowed, like toys or coins, can block the intestines.
- Infections: Infections can cause swelling or blockages in the intestines.
- Nervous system disorders: Problems with the nervous system, which controls how the intestines work, can also lead to blockages.
The non-modifiable risk factors of intestinal obstruction cannot be changed or controlled. These include:
- Cancer, especially in the abdomen: Cancer in the stomach area can increase the risk of blockages.
- Crohn's disease: A long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract
- Ulcerative colitis: A condition that causes inflammation and sores in the colon
- Previous abdominal or pelvic surgery: Scar tissue (adhesions) from past surgeries can block parts of the intestines.
- Radiation therapy: Treatment for cancer that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, which can increase the risk of blockages
- Hernias: When an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue, this can block the intestines.
- Volvulus: A twisting of the intestines that blocks food and blood flow.
The modifiable risk factors of intestinal obstruction can be influenced or changed. These include:
- Foreign body ingestion: Accidentally swallowing objects can block the intestines
- Diabetes mellitus: Specifically diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage from diabetes) can slow down the digestive system and increase the risk of intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
- History of ulcer surgery: Abdominal surgeries, including ulcer surgeries, can lead to the formation of scar tissue (adhesions), which is a well-known risk factor for intestinal obstruction.
It is important to know that while some risk factors can be modified, others cannot. It's always a good idea to discuss any concerns or possible risk factors with your healthcare professional. They can provide advice and guidance based on your situation.
The common symptoms of intestinal obstruction include:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Vomiting
- Bloating: A swollen of full feeling in the stomach
- Loud bowel sounds: Noisy, gurgling sounds from the stomach or intestines
- Swelling of the abdomen: An obvious increase in the size of the stomach area
- Inability to pass gas or stools
- Constipation: Difficulty or inability to have a bowel movement
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
In severe cases, a fever may develop, which can be a sign of an infection and should be checked by a doctor right away.
It's important to know that these symptoms can be different depending on where the blockage is and how long it has lasted. If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to get medical help right away because a complete intestinal obstruction is a medical emergency and usually needs surgery.
To diagnose intestinal obstruction, doctors commonly perform the following exams, tests, and procedures:
- History and physical exam: The doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and anything that may be causing your condition. They will check your abdomen and listen for any unusual sounds.
- Imaging studies: These tests provide a clear view of the intestines and include:
- X-ray: Can help find blockages or unusual changes
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: This is a special scan that takes many pictures of your abdomen to help find where the blockage is and how serious it is.
- Barium enema: A liquid called barium is put into your large intestine through your rectum (bottom). Then, X-rays are taken to see if there is a blockage in your intestine.
- Lab tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for signs of infection or electrolyte imbalances (signs that your body’s important chemicals, like sodium and potassium, are out of balance).
Remember, these are general procedures, and your doctor will decide which tests are needed based on your symptoms and medical history. It's important to talk with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for intestinal obstruction are to relieve symptoms, get the intestines working again, and stop other problems from happening. Here are the different types of treatments and how they work to achieve these goals:
- Medication: Medications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation, control nausea and vomiting, and treat any infections or problems like electrolyte imbalances. These medications can help relieve symptoms and improve overall comfort. Medications, however, do not treat the obstruction itself.
- Therapies: One treatment may involve using a nasogastric (NG) tube, which goes through your nose into your stomach. This tube helps remove extra fluid and gas from the stomach and intestines, reducing pressure and helping you feel better. You may also receive intravenous (IV) fluids to treat dehydration and fix any imbalances in important body chemicals like sodium and potassium.
- Therapeutic procedures: If other treatments don’t work, surgery may be needed to fix the blockage or create a new path around it, allowing the intestines to work normally again. The type of surgery will depend on where the blockage is and how serious it is.
- Health behavior changes: Doctors may suggest resting your intestines (bowel rest) by not eating solid foods for awhile and getting fluids through an IV. This helps your intestines rest and recover. It is important to follow any eating instructions given by your healthcare professional.
It is important to know that each person’s treatment will be different depending on their situation. Talking with a healthcare professional is important to figure out the right treatment plan for you.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.