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Intestinal obstruction

What is Intestinal obstruction

Intestinal obstruction refers to a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine, which can prevent food, fluids, and gas from passing through the digestive system. This can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, and can be a medical emergency if not treated promptly. There are several types of intestinal obstruction, including mechanical obstruction (caused by a physical obstruction in the intestine) and functional obstruction (caused by a problem with the muscle or nerve function of the intestine).

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Symptoms of Intestinal obstruction 

The symptoms of intestinal obstruction can vary depending on the severity and location of the obstruction, but can include:

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  1. Abdominal pain: This is often the first symptom of intestinal obstruction, and may be crampy or intermittent.

  2. Distended abdomen: The abdomen may become swollen or bloated due to the buildup of gas and fluids.

  3. Vomiting: Vomiting may occur as the body tries to expel the contents of the stomach and small intestine.

  4. Constipation: Incomplete bowel movements or the inability to pass stool may occur due to the blockage in the intestine.

  5. Diarrhea: In some cases, diarrhea may occur as the body tries to push liquid stool past the obstruction.

  6. Lack of appetite: The patient may lose interest in eating due to the discomfort and pain.

  7. Inability to pass gas: The patient may be unable to pass gas due to the obstruction.

  8. Dehydration: In severe cases, dehydration may occur due to the inability to take in fluids.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially severe abdominal pain and vomiting, seek medical attention immediately as it could indicate a serious condition requiring urgent treatment.

Causes of Intestinal obstruction

There are several possible causes of intestinal obstruction, including:

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  1. Mechanical obstruction: This type of obstruction is caused by a physical blockage in the intestine, such as a tumor, adhesions (scar tissue), a hernia, or impacted feces.

  2. Intussusception: This is a condition where one part of the intestine slides into another part of the intestine, causing a blockage.

  3. Volvulus: This is a condition where the intestine twists on itself, causing a blockage.

  4. Adhesions: These are bands of scar tissue that can form after surgery or infection, and can cause a blockage by constricting or pulling on the intestine.

  5. Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and scarring of the intestinal walls, leading to a blockage.

  6. Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon called diverticula can lead to a blockage.

  7. Cancer: Tumors in the intestine or nearby organs can cause a blockage by pressing on the intestine or growing into it.

  8. Functional obstruction: This type of obstruction is caused by a problem with the muscle or nerve function of the intestine, such as from nerve damage, medication side effects, or certain medical conditions like diabetes.

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The specific cause of intestinal obstruction will depend on the individual patient and their medical history.

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Treatment

The treatment for intestinal obstruction depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the obstruction, and the patient's overall health. In many cases, treatment will require hospitalization and close monitoring.

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  1. Nonsurgical treatment: If the obstruction is mild, the patient may be able to pass it on their own with the help of medications and supportive care. This can include fasting, bowel rest, intravenous fluids, pain medication, and antibiotics to prevent or treat infection.

  2. Surgery: In more severe cases or if the obstruction cannot be relieved nonsurgically, surgery may be required to remove the blockage. Depending on the location and cause of the obstruction, surgery may involve removing a portion of the intestine, repairing a hernia, or removing scar tissue.

  3. Nasogastric (NG) tube: An NG tube may be inserted through the nose and into the stomach to help relieve pressure and remove fluid and air from the intestine.

  4. Colonoscopy: In some cases, a flexible tube with a camera on the end (colonoscopy) may be used to locate and remove an obstruction in the colon.

  5. Enema: In certain situations, a liquid solution may be used to help remove an obstruction in the colon.

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The treatment for intestinal obstruction may be complex and can vary depending on the underlying cause, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for individualized treatment recommendations

FAQs around Intestinal obstruction

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