What Causes A Bowel Obstruction?

Bowel obstruction is a medical emergency where the small or large intestine has become blocked and does not allow food to pass. A blockage in the bowel can cause the individual's intestine to split or rupture. When a bowel obstruction tears or ruptures the intestine, the contents before the blockage can spill into the abdominal cavity and cause a life-threatening infection. Symptoms of a bowel obstruction include constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, cramping, bloating, nausea, severe pain, inability to pass gas, and a swollen belly. A physician can use a physical examination, blood tests, endoscopy, computerized tomography scans, and contrast x-rays to pinpoint and diagnose an obstruction. Bowel obstruction treatment depends on its severity and its underlying cause, though common treatments include stool softening medication, intravenous fluids, nausea medication, pain relievers, antibiotics, use of a nasogastric tube, surgical procedures, and therapeutic enema.