How to Cope With a Bowel Obstruction

Bowel obstructions have many causes and are diagnosed when there is a blockage in the intestines. They can be very serious and should only be treated by a doctor. Learn to recognize the symptoms of a bowel obstruction so you can get help right away and then do what you can to cope at home, once you're under a doctor's supervision.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify the symptoms. Watch for abdominal pain that may include cramping. Severe pain may require emergency treatment. Pay attention to vomiting that is brown or green in color. Keep track of your bowel movement patterns and any sudden changes. Constipation might indicate a complete blockage and diarrhea might indicate a partial blockage. Look for continual bloating. Sudden bloating on a regular basis is also an indicator of a bowel obstruction.

• 2

  See your doctor as soon as possible. Document your symptoms and see your doctor to determine the best course of treatment. Your doctor may admit you to the hospital for treatment. There are non-surgical treatments such as enemas and stints. Sometimes, however, surgery is required to remove a complete blockage.

• 3

  Make yourself comfortable at home. Once you're under a doctor's care, cope with the bowel obstruction and follow the doctor's orders. A liquid diet might be required to prevent complete obstruction while you heal. Recognize signs that the obstruction is getting worse. Let your doctor know if abdominal pain returns, gets worse or if you feel bloated. Call your doctor right away if you experience the inability to pass gas, liquid or stools again.

• 4

  Prevent another bowel obstruction. Although sometimes there are few things you can do to prevent a bowel obstruction, you can address certain issues that may cause them. Get hernias that may cause a future bowel obstruction removed. Be active after any abdominal surgeries to prevent adhesions that might cause bowel obstructions.