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Symptoms of Small Bowel Disturbances

Your small bowel is the longest portion of your intestine. Certain symptoms, such as cramping or bloating, can be indicative of problems within the small bowel.

  1. Small Bowel

    • The portion of your bowel referred to as the small bowel is approximately 14 feet in length. Much of your body's nutrients are absorbed in this portion of your intestine.

    Cramping

    • Cramping abdominal pain that occurs around your belly button can indicate a small bowel disturbance. Hernias or tumors can cut off your bowel's blood supply, causing severe pain that will be localized and intense, necessitating immediate medical attention.

    Bloating

    • Your lower abdomen may bloat and gurgle as a result of small bowel blockage. Complete blockage can cause a high-pitched whine that can be heard through a stethoscope.

    Vomiting

    • Small bowel disturbances often cause vomiting. Greenish vomit is indicative of upper small bowel problems, whereas brownish vomit points to a lower small bowel problem.

    Bleeding

    • Black, tarry stools or vomit that resembles coffee grounds can indicate bleeding in the small intestine. Bleeding that occurs in the small bowel is typically the result of blood vessel abnormalities within the walls of the bowel. If you experience a sudden feeling of weakness, dizziness and/or abdominal pain, it could indicate a massive intestinal bleed requiring immediate medical attention.

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