A partial or complete blockage of the intestines that prevents the passage of the contents of the intestines. Obstruction of the intestine can be due to a number of causes. Symptoms vary according to where the blockage occurs and may include severe abdominal pain, cramping, and distension. Abdominal distension due to obstruction is a medical emergency. Profuse vomiting and cessation of passing gas and feces are also signs. High-pitched borborygmi (loud, rumbling, gurgling noises produced by the intestines) may indicate obstruction early on.
A partial or total obstruction of either the small or large intestine.
Potential causes encompass a strangulated hernia (where the intestines protrude through the abdominal wall), intestinal stenosis (narrowing often attributed to intestinal cancer), congenital closure known as intestinal atresia, adhesions stemming from scar tissue, bowel loops twisting (volvulus), and the telescoping of the intestine within itself (intussusception). Intestinal obstruction may also arise from conditions affecting the intestinal wall, such as Crohn’s disease, or from muscle paralysis in the intestinal wall.
Less frequently, an internal obstruction within the intestine can arise due to impacted food, fecal impaction, gallstones, or an accidentally ingested object.
An obstruction in the small intestine typically leads to sporadic cramp-like pain at the abdominal center, accompanied by more frequent episodes of vomiting and an inability to pass gas or feces. On the other hand, a blockage in the large intestine results in abdominal pain, abdominal distension, and the inability to pass gas or feces.
Treatment includes using a nasogastric tube to empty the stomach and replenishing lost fluids through an intravenous drip. In certain situations, this approach may adequately address the issue. Nonetheless, in numerous instances, surgical intervention to address the underlying cause of the obstruction becomes necessary.