The intestine is a part of the digestive system that digests food, absorbs nutrients, and excretes food waste. The human intestine is divided into two parts: the small and large intestines.

Intestinal obstruction, also known as bowel obstruction, occurs when both the small and large intestines are blocked. Learn more about the signs of a bowel obstruction.

What is a bowel obstruction?

Bowel obstruction is a medical condition in which a blockage prevents food or liquid from passing through the small or large intestine. This blockage can be caused by a number of factors, including scar tissue growth after surgery (adhesions), hernias, tumors, inflammation, or the side effects of certain medications.

These intestinal blockages disrupt the normal flow of food, fluid, and gas through the intestines and can be potentially dangerous. If proper medical care is not provided, the risk of serious complications increases significantly.

Recognize the symptoms of bowel obstruction

The signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction vary according to the location and severity of the blockage. The following are some of the most frequently encountered symptoms:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty passing stool
• Vomit gushing or green or yellow vomit
• Unable to pass gas or stool
• The abdomen feels swollen, full and tight due to the build-up of gas and fluid in the intestines

In addition to the symptoms above, you may also experience additional symptoms, including:

• Fever, especially if there is secondary inflammation or infection
• Fatigue and weakness due to lack of nutrients and electrolyte imbalance
• Weight loss
• Dehydration

If you have symptoms of a bowel obstruction, you should avoid eating and drinking, keep track of when the symptoms appear, and seek medical attention right away. The doctor can examine and evaluate your condition, as well as make recommendations for treatment and care.

When to seek medical help for bowel obstruction

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction:

• Have severe abdominal pain that will not go away
• Unable to pass gas or have a bowel movement for more than a few days
• Have recurring vomiting that cannot be stopped
• The abdomen feels swollen and tight
• Have a history of abdominal surgery or conditions that can increase the risk of bowel obstruction, such as Crohn's disease or hernia

If you have these symptoms, go to the hospital right away. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent serious complications such as perforation (leakage of the bowel) and necrosis (the death of bowel tissue).

Have other questions about the problem of bowel obstruction or defecating? You can make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!