Guide To Common Bowel Obstruction Symptoms

Also known as an intestinal obstruction, a bowel obstruction is a condition in which part of the bowel becomes blocked. Obstructions can be caused by hernias, impacted feces, diverticulitis, and volvulus (twisting of the colon). Crohn's disease and other types of inflammatory bowel diseases can also lead to bowel obstructions, and they may develop due to the presence of cancer in the colon. In adult patients, the most frequent causes of bowel obstructions are colon cancer and intestinal adhesions that may form after abdominal or pelvic operations. In pediatric patients, telescoping of the intestine (intussusception) is the most frequent cause of a bowel obstruction. Doctors evaluate patients for possible bowel obstructions with a physical exam. During the exam, the physician will gently feel the abdomen for any lumps or tenderness, and they will use a stethoscope to listen for the presence of bowel sounds. X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, and air or barium enemas may be necessary to properly diagnose a bowel obstruction. Treatment normally requires hospitalization. Patients may have surgery to remove the blockage, and metal stents are sometimes needed.