Intestinal obstruction is a blockage in the intestines that can be caused by hernias, tumors, or adhesions. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, inability to defecate, and bloating. Without treatment, it can lead to tissue death and infection. High-risk groups should be aware of potential symptoms.
An intestinal obstruction is a blockage in the intestines that prevents food from passing through the entire digestive tract. The condition can be caused by several factors and can have several noticeably bothersome symptoms. It is important to understand the main symptoms of intestinal obstruction in order to seek timely and appropriate medical care.
The most common causes of an intestinal blockage include hernias, tumors, and the growth of fibrous blocks called adhesions. Each of these causes can result in slightly different bowel obstruction symptoms. Generally, tests are needed to show what type of condition is causing the obstruction, as many symptoms are shared among all varieties.
Most of the symptoms of intestinal obstruction are felt throughout the stomach and abdominal region. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms, as are abdominal cramps. These symptoms are common to many conditions, including the flu, food poisoning, or even simple indigestion. If there is intestinal obstruction, however, these symptoms will likely be ongoing and may begin to worsen and become more painful over time.
One of the main symptoms of bowel obstruction that can indicate a serious problem is the inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas. As this symptom is incompatible with most temporary illnesses such as the flu, nausea or cramps along with the inability to defecate can be a clear indication of a blockage, as the digested and processed material is unable to pass through the normal waste removal steps.
As the symptoms of intestinal obstruction and the condition worsen, the stomach may start to feel bloated or distended. This can be the result of an increasing amount of matter being trapped by the blockage, or it can be a sign of a growing tumor or increased inflammation of a hernia. The distention should be treated as a serious symptom and brought to the immediate attention of a doctor or health care professional.
Without treatment, serious consequences can result from intestinal obstruction. Parts of the intestine or colon can actually be choked off by the blood supply to the point of tissue death. Infection in the abdomen also becomes more likely as the condition progresses and can lead to dangerous tears in the lining of the digestive tract.
People at high risk of developing intestinal obstruction should be on the lookout for potential symptoms. High-risk groups include people with Crohn’s disease, those who have had pelvic or abdominal surgery, and people with a history of stomach or intestinal cancer. Because an obstruction can also occur in the colon, people with a history of colon cancer or inflammation should also be careful.
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