A bowel obstruction is a blocking partial or complete intestine, which prevents the normal transit of feces and gases. This blockage can occur in both the small intestine and the colon. Bowel obstruction causes severe abdominal pain in the form of cramps (colic) which recur cyclically, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Nausea and vomiting occur more frequently and earlier with an obstruction in the proximal part of the intestine and may be the only symptom. In the event of a distal occlusion and which lasts for some time, vomiting may even take on the appearance of fecal matter (faecal vomiting) which is caused by the bacterial overgrowth upstream of the obstruction.

Causes

Bowel obstructions are caused by different problems. A distinction is made between mechanical and functional occlusions.

Mechanical occlusions

In L’small intestine, the intestinal adhesions are the main cause of mechanical obstruction. Bowel adhesions are fibrous tissue found in the abdominal cavity, sometimes at birth, but most often after surgery. These tissues can eventually bind to the wall of the intestine and cause an obstruction.

The hernias and you die are also relatively common causes of mechanical obstruction of the small intestine. More rarely, it will be caused by an abnormal narrowing at the exit of the stomach, the twisting of the intestinal tube on itself (volvulus), chronic inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, or the overturning of a part of the intestine into the other (an intussusception, in medical parlance).

In the colon, the causes of intestinal obstruction most often correspond to a tumor, diverticula, or a twisting of the intestinal tract on itself. More rarely, the occlusion will be due to an abnormal narrowing of the colon, intussusception, stool plugs (fecaloma) or the presence of a foreign body.

Functional occlusion

When it is not of mechanical origin, intestinal obstruction results from an abnormality in the functioning of the intestines. The latter are no longer able to transport materials and gases, without there being any physical obstacle. This is called theparalytic ileus ou pseudo-obstruction intestinal. This type of obstruction most often occurs after bowel surgery.

Possible complications

If theintestinal obstruction not treated in time, it can degenerate and lead to death (necrosis) of the part of the intestine that is blocked. Perforation of the intestine can ensue and cause peritonitis, leading to serious infections and even death.

When to consult?

See your doctor as soon as symptoms appear.