Symptoms of Nerve Damage to the Intestines and Colon

Nerve damage to the intestine and colon can severely impact the function of the gastrointestinal tract. Nerve damage in the intestines can make it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients or for food to pass into the colon. Nerve damage in the colon can obstruct bowel movements and cause constipation.

Bloating

• Nerve damage to the intestine prevents the muscles from passing food though the gastrointestinal tract, which causes a bloated or swollen feeling in the abdomen.

Constipation

• The most common symptom of nerve damage to the intestine and colon is constipation. This is caused by the intestines absorbing too much water or the colon nerves needing additional stimulation to pass stools.

Diarrhea

• Nerve damage in the intestine can prevent the intestines from absorbing water from food, resulting in loose, watery stools.

Weight Loss

• Rapid weight loss may occur as a result of nerve damage to the intestines, because the body is unable to absorb nutrients and calories from food.

Malnutrition

• A serious symptom of nerve damage to the small intestine is malnutrition, which results from the intestine's inability to absorb nutrients vital to the body's function.