About Obstructed Bowels

Most cases of mild abdominal cramping are temporary and will resolve themselves, but if the cramps occur in progressively more painful waves or if they are accompanied by vomiting, abdominal swelling and the inability to empty your bowels, you may suffer from an obstructed bowel. A blockage of the bowels signals the need for immediate medical attention. Your doctor will determine the extent of the condition and the necessary treatment.

Location

• An obstruction may occur in either the small intestine or the large intestine and may be a partial blockage or a complete blockage. If the obstruction is partial, the patient may experience diarrhea but if the blockage is complete, there will be no bowel movements at all. Within a day or two, the abdominal pain become severe if the blockage isn't treated.

Diagnosis

• A medical doctor may order an abdominal x-ray or a CT scan in order to locate the obstruction. In addition, he may order a blood test to determine if infection is present. The patient will undergo a physical exam that includes listening to the abdomen with a stethoscope. With a bowel obstruction, the stomach may gurgle or emit high whistling sounds as fecal matter, liquid and air shift under increased pressure.

Causes

• Obstructed bowels have different causes but a history of irregular bowel movements, resulting in impaction may be a precursor. Crohn's disease, twisted bowels, a hernia, gallstones or intussecption can all lead to obstructed bowels. A diet low in fiber and high in red meat may increase the risk of developing an obstruction in some patients.

Treatment

• Severe cases of obstructed bowels may require hospitalization and emergency surgery. If the blockage is partial, the doctor may order a liquid diet, high in fiber before resorting to more invasive procedures. Smaller partial obstructions may respond to barium or air enemas. The doctor may also use an expandable stent, inserted through the rectum, if the blockage is in the lower portion of the bowel. During surgery, the affected portion of bowel is removed and the doctor may perform a colostomy, rerouting the bowel to an opening in the abdomen. A colostomy may be temporary or permanent.

Home Care

• After blockage occurs, your doctor may order ongoing lifestyle changes to prevent another obstruction. Along with a high fiber diet, you may be instructed to consume more liquids and the doctor may tell you to reduce or eliminate your consumption of red meat and foods high in saturated fats.