What is paralytic ileus?

Paralytic ileus is a condition in which the muscles of the intestines become paralyzed, preventing the passage of food and waste. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and nausea. Paralytic ileus can be caused by a variety of factors, including abdominal surgery, certain medications, and infections. Treatment typically involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and pain medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the paralytic ileus.

Causes of paralytic ileus

There are a number of factors that can cause paralytic ileus, including:

* Abdominal surgery: Paralytic ileus is a common complication of abdominal surgery, especially major surgery involving the intestines. This is because the surgery can damage the nerves that control the muscles of the intestines.

* Certain medications: Some medications can cause paralytic ileus as a side effect. These medications include opioids, anticholinergics, and calcium channel blockers.

* Infections: Infections can also cause paralytic ileus. This is because the infection can release toxins that damage the nerves that control the muscles of the intestines.

* Other conditions: Other conditions that can cause paralytic ileus include hypokalemia (low potassium levels), dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

Symptoms of paralytic ileus

The symptoms of paralytic ileus can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

* Abdominal pain

* Bloating

* Constipation

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Diarrhea

* Abdominal distension

* Fever

* Chills

Treatment of paralytic ileus

Treatment for paralytic ileus typically involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and pain medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the paralytic ileus.

Supportive care

The goals of supportive care for paralytic ileus are to:

* Relieve abdominal pain and bloating

* Prevent dehydration

* Maintain electrolyte balance

* Correct any underlying electrolyte imbalances

Supportive care may include the following measures:

* Intravenous fluids: Intravenous fluids are given to replace fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea.

* Pain medication: Pain medication may be given to relieve abdominal pain.

* Nasogastric tube: A nasogastric tube may be inserted to remove gas and fluids from the stomach.

* Total parenteral nutrition (TPN): TPN is a type of intravenous nutrition that provides the body with the nutrients it needs.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of paralytic ileus. Surgery may be necessary if the paralytic ileus is caused by:

* A bowel obstruction

* A strangulated hernia

* A perforated intestine

Prevention of paralytic ileus

There is no sure way to prevent paralytic ileus, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

* Avoiding abdominal surgery whenever possible

* Taking medications that can cause paralytic ileus only when necessary

* Avoiding dehydration

* Eating a healthy diet

* Getting regular exercise