When the large or small intestine becomes partially or completely blocked this condition is known as a bowel obstruction that can be a life threatening condition when left untreated.
There are several conditions that can cause a bowel obstruction with the most common being scar tissue when it occurs in the small intestine, and cancer when the bowel obstruction has occurred in the large intestine.
In this medical guide to digestive problems, you will learn about the most common symptoms, causes, and treatments for a these disease.
Common Symptoms of a Bowel Obstruction A bowel obstruction disrupts the normal flow of waste products through the intestines including fluids, food, and gas.
This can cause numerous symptoms with the most common being pain or cramping in the stomach or abdominal area which may be severe and come and go.
If the blockage of the intestine is only partial, this may cause the symptom of diarrhea.
When the intestine is fully blocked, an individual will experience constipation as well as lack of gas.
Bloating is also a common symptom of a these diseases.
Vomiting can also be a symptom of an intestinal blockage, however, this will typically only occur in later stages if the condition has gone undiagnosed or left untreated.
Potential Causes of a Bowel Obstruction A bowel obstruction can occur for several different reasons including a mechanical obstruction which can be the narrowing or twisting of the intestines, a tumor, or scar tissue.
These mechanical obstructions can be caused by other underlying medical conditions such as Crohn's disease, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), or diverticulitis which has caused the narrowing or twisting of part of the intestines, or the development of a tumor caused by cancer.
Intussusception is also another cause of bowel obstruction and is the condition of which a part of the intestine slides or folds into the next very similar to a telescope or the closing of an antenna.
Treatment of a Bowel Obstruction Bowel obstructions typically require hospitalization until treatment is successful in eliminating the blockage.
The type of treatment for a these symptoms primarily depends on what has caused the blockage and may consist of liquids or air enemas, medication, or stents which are small mesh tubes that are expandable and will open up the blockage.
Surgery may be required when other forms of treatment are ineffective and is typically always performed in cases where there is a full blockage of the intestine.
During surgery the blockage or portion of the intestine that has been damaged is removed and in some cases the patient may have to have an ileostomy or colostomy that is temporary or permanent.
A colostomy or ileostomy is when part of the intestine is brought forward to an opening made in the skin through the abdominal wall and requires the patient to have a disposable bag attached to the skin in order to collect the waste products from the colon.
In some cases of bowel obstruction the blood supply can be cut off from the intestine or the intestine may become torn or perforated.
These situations are considered medical emergencies as they are life threatening and can result in death.
If you are experiencing any symptoms that are associated with a bowel obstruction, it is essential that you seek a medical assessment as soon as possible in order to receive the proper form of treatment and avoid any serious complications.