Description

Intestinal obstruction refers to a partial or complete blockage of the normal flow of digested food, fluids, and gas through the intestines. It can occur in the small intestine (small bowel obstruction) or the large intestine (colonic obstruction). Types and Causes of intestinal obstruction There are two main types of intestinal obstruction: 1. Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction: This type of obstruction occurs when there is a physical blockage in the intestine that prevents the normal flow of contents. It can be further classified into two subtypes: a. Adynamic Ileus: This occurs when there is a disruption in the normal muscle contractions (peristalsis) of the intestine, leading to a functional obstruction. It is often caused by factors such as surgery, inflammation, medication, or electrolyte imbalances. b. Mechanical Blockage: This type of obstruction is caused by a physical obstruction within the intestine. It can result from various factors, including hernias, adhesions (scar tissue), tumors, impacted feces, strictures (narrowing of the intestine), or intussusception (telescoping of one part of the intestine into another). 2. Functional Intestinal Obstruction: Also known as paralytic ileus, this type of obstruction occurs when the normal rhythmic contractions of the intestine (peristalsis) are impaired. It is usually caused by factors that disrupt the normal nerve signals to the intestinal muscles, such as surgery, infection, medications, electrolyte imbalances, or certain medical conditions. Signs & Symptoms of intestinal obstruction Intestinal obstruction can cause a range of symptoms, which can vary depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Here are common symptoms associated with intestinal obstruction: 1. Abdominal pain: This is one of the most prominent symptoms of intestinal obstruction. The pain may be crampy, colicky, or constant. It is often severe and localized around the site of the blockage. 2. Bloating and abdominal distension: The accumulation of gas and fluid above the obstruction can lead to bloating and noticeable swelling of the abdomen. 3. Nausea and vomiting: As the blockage persists, nausea and vomiting may occur. Initially, the vomit may contain undigested food, but later it may become bile-stained or feculent (containing stool). 4. Constipation or inability to pass gas: The blockage can impede the normal movement of stool through the intestine, resulting in constipation. Additionally, the inability to pass gas is a common symptom. 5. Diarrhea: In some cases, partial obstruction can cause liquid stool to pass around the obstruction, resulting in diarrhea. 6. Lack of appetite and weight loss: The persistent discomfort and symptoms associated with intestinal obstruction can lead to a decreased appetite and unintentional weight loss. 7. Abdominal tenderness and cramping: The abdomen may feel tender to touch, and cramping sensations may be experienced due to the underlying obstruction. 8. Dehydration: If the obstruction persists, it can lead to dehydration due to vomiting, decreased fluid intake, or excessive fluid loss through diarrhea. In severe cases or if left untreated, intestinal obstruction can lead to complications such as bowel ischemia (lack of blood flow to the intestines), bowel perforation (a hole in the intestine), infection, and sepsis. If you experience symptoms of intestinal obstruction, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention as it can be a potentially life-threatening condition. Risk Factors of intestinal obstruction Several factors can increase the risk of developing intestinal obstruction. These risk factors include: 1. Previous abdominal surgery: Prior abdominal surgeries can lead to the formation of adhesions (scar tissue), which can cause the intestines to become twisted or partially blocked. 2. Hernias: Certain types of hernias, such as inguinal hernias or femoral hernias, can cause mechanical obstruction if a part of the intestine gets trapped or incarcerated within the hernia sac. 3. Intestinal tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the intestine can cause a blockage by obstructing the passage of contents through the intestinal lumen. 4. Intestinal strictures: Strictures are narrowed segments of the intestine, often caused by conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or repeated inflammation. These strictures can eventually lead to a partial or complete obstruction. 5. Intestinal adhesions: Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form between loops of the intestine and other abdominal structures. They may develop as a result of surgery, infection, or inflammation, and can lead to intestinal obstruction.