Bowel obstruction happens when the small or large intestine gets blocked, either partially or completely. This blockage stops food, fluids, gas, and stool from moving through the digestive tract. Common reasons for obstructions include scar tissue from past surgeries, hernias, tumors, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and vomiting.
How a bowel obstruction is treated depends on its cause and severity. Partial obstructions might be managed with medications or methods to relieve pressure, while complete obstructions are emergencies requiring surgery. These blockages can occur at any age and are among the top reasons for emergency surgeries in the U.S.
Doctors classify bowel obstructions based on where and how they occur, and then decide the best treatment plan. Obstructions in the small intestine are most frequent. The small intestine is essential for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and moving content to the large intestine. If blocked, symptoms like crampy pain, bloating, and vomiting can occur.
About 25% of obstructions happen in the large intestine, which absorbs water and electrolytes from waste and shapes it into stool. Blockage here leads to discomfort, constipation, and gas issues. Obstructions can be partial, allowing some liquid and gas to pass, or complete, blocking everything. Most complete obstructions in the small intestine need surgery, while most partial ones can resolve with other treatments.
Symptoms may develop slowly or abruptly and vary in intensity depending on the kind of obstruction and whether it’s partial or complete. Blockages in the small intestine often cause sudden symptoms, while those in the large intestine develop gradually and are usually milder. Partial obstructions might cause intermittent symptoms over time, worsening without treatment. Severe, sudden symptoms indicate a complete obstruction needing immediate care.
The causes of bowel obstruction can be mechanical or functional. Mechanical obstructions result from a physical barrier in the intestines, while functional obstructions occur when intestinal muscles don’t work properly despite no physical blockage. Numerous factors, including certain lifestyle elements, can increase the risk of obstructions.
Diagnosing a bowel obstruction involves reviewing medical history, a physical exam, and various diagnostic tests. A healthcare provider typically checks for abdominal sounds and sensitivity. Tests help confirm the presence and type of obstruction.
Most bowel obstructions require hospital treatment to restore normal intestinal function and avoid complications. Approaches vary by the obstruction’s cause and location. Treatment may involve IV fluids and medications to balance electrolytes and provide comfort. If hard stool is the culprit, enemas or stool softeners might help. In cases of infection or bowel perforation, antibiotics are necessary.
A nasogastric tube can relieve pressure and pain by removing fluids and gas from the intestines. Eating or drinking is restricted during treatment to prevent further obstruction. A stent might be placed in the colon to relieve blockages when surgery isn’t viable. This allows stool, gas, and fluids to move past the blocked area.
Surgery is often performed by colorectal surgeons in cases where obstructions are complete or other treatments fail. Surgical solutions might include creating a colostomy or ileostomy if reconnection of the intestines isn’t feasible. These procedures involve bringing part of the intestine to the abdomen’s surface, with waste collected in an external pouch.
While complete prevention of bowel obstruction isn’t always possible, recognizing the symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can minimize serious complications. If you suspect a bowel obstruction, consult a healthcare provider immediately to reduce the risk of serious health issues.
