Summary about Disease
Intestinal obstruction is a blockage that prevents food and fluids from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon). Obstructions can be partial or complete, and they can occur anywhere in the digestive tract but are most common in the small intestine. Untreated intestinal obstruction can lead to serious complications, including bowel perforation, infection, and death.
Symptoms
Severe abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
Inability to pass gas or stool
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Swollen abdomen
Dehydration
Causes
Intestinal obstruction can be caused by mechanical obstructions or non-mechanical (paralytic ileus) causes.
Mechanical Obstruction:
Adhesions (scar tissue after surgery)
Hernias
Tumors (cancerous or noncancerous)
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
Diverticulitis
Volvulus (twisting of the intestine)
Intussusception (telescoping of one part of the intestine into another, more common in children)
Impacted stool
Foreign bodies
Paralytic Ileus (Non-mechanical Obstruction):
Surgery (especially abdominal surgery)
Infections (like gastroenteritis)
Certain medications
Electrolyte imbalances
Neurological disorders
Medicine Used
The medicines used depends on the underlying cause and severity of the obstruction.
Pain Management: Pain relievers may be administered to alleviate discomfort, often using opioid or non-opioid analgesics.
Anti-emetics: Used to reduce nausea and vomiting.
Stool Softeners/Laxatives: Only used if the obstruction is partial and the doctor allows it. Avoid these if a complete obstruction is suspected.
Antibiotics: If infection is present, antibiotics are administered.
Decompression Medications: Medications like metoclopramide might be used in some cases of paralytic ileus to stimulate bowel motility, but only under careful medical supervision.
IV Fluids: To treat or prevent dehydration.
Electrolyte replacement: To correct imbalances. Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive, and the appropriate medications and treatment plan will be determined by a healthcare professional based on individual circumstances. Do not self-medicate.
Is Communicable
Intestinal obstruction itself is generally not communicable. The exception is when an infectious agent (e.g., bacteria or virus) causes an intestinal obstruction.
Precautions
Precautions vary based on the underlying cause.
Post-surgery: Follow doctor's instructions regarding diet and activity after abdominal surgery to minimize adhesions.
Diet: A balanced diet with adequate fiber and hydration may help prevent constipation-related obstructions.
Hernia Repair: Repair hernias to prevent them from causing obstructions.
Managing underlying conditions: Properly manage conditions like Crohn's disease to minimize inflammation and obstruction risk.
Medication use: Avoid unnecessary medications that can cause paralytic ileus.
Early treatment: Seek prompt medical attention for any abdominal symptoms.
How long does an outbreak last?
Intestinal obstruction is not an outbreak situation but rather a condition that develops due to various factors. The duration of the obstruction depends on the cause, severity, and how quickly it is treated. Paralytic ileus may resolve in a few days with treatment. Mechanical obstructions may require surgery and several days or weeks to recover.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Exam: The doctor will examine the abdomen for distension, tenderness, and listen for bowel sounds.
Imaging Tests:
X-rays: Abdominal X-rays can help identify obstructions and gas patterns.
CT Scan: More detailed imaging to pinpoint the location and cause of the obstruction.
Ultrasound: May be used, especially in children, to identify certain types of obstructions.
Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection, electrolyte imbalances, and dehydration.
Contrast Studies: Barium swallow or enema may be used in some cases to visualize the digestive tract.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary.
Sudden onset: Some obstructions cause sudden, severe pain, vomiting, and inability to pass stool or gas.
Gradual onset: Others may start with milder symptoms like abdominal discomfort and bloating that worsen over days or weeks.
Important Considerations
Intestinal obstruction is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe complications such as bowel necrosis, perforation, sepsis, and death.
Treatment may involve conservative management (bowel rest, IV fluids, nasogastric tube) or surgery to relieve the obstruction.
The specific treatment plan depends on the underlying cause, location, and severity of the obstruction.
Always seek immediate medical care if you suspect an intestinal obstruction.