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Bowel Blockage Relief

When an internal blockage in your small or large intestine, food and fluid become stuck and cannot pass via normal digestion. Symptoms of an intestinal blockage include pain, vomiting and abdominal swelling. It is important to see a doctor if you have signs of an intestinal blockage because, if left untreated, the tissue around the obstruction can die and lead to infection, shock and even death.

  1. Hospital

    • Though there can be many causes for an intestinal blockage, the most common factors behind an obstruction are hernias, tumors or adhesions in the intestine, where thick bands of tissue grow into the digestive tract. If you have an intestinal blockage, you will need to be hospitalized for treatment. People with intestinal blockages will likely feel very ill, so your doctor will stabilize your condition when you arrive. According to the Mayo Clinic, stabilization includes giving you fluids intravenously, putting a tube into your stomach via your nose to get out the excess air and fluid and inserting a catheter into the bladder to help it drain.

    Treatment

    • Your specific treatment will depend on the cause of your intestinal blockage. A hernia will require surgery, and if the blockage comes from a tumor, it will be removed and tested for malignancy. If your blockage is only partial, however, the tube through your nose may be enough to provide relief as it helps decompress the intestines and allows the stuck food and fluid to pass through. Also, a condition called paralytic ileus, in which your intestines move less than normal, mimics the signs and symptoms of an obstruction without an actual obstruction. If paralytic ileus is the cause, your doctor will likely keep you in the hospital for a few days and then prescribe medication.

    Risks

    • People who have had any sort abdominal surgery are at a greater risk of abdominal obstruction. According to the Mayo Clinic, the scarring from these surgeries is the top cause of obstruction. Other conditions that will increase your risk include cancer, Crohn’s disease, malrotation of the intestines and chronic constipation.

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