What Causes A Bowel Obstruction?

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is an infection or inflammation in an individual that occurs in small pouches in the intestinal wall. Diverticula describes the small pouches that form on the intestinal wall. The diverticula can develop at any point in the intestines, but most commonly form at the ends of the sigmoid and descending colons. There is an acute and chronic form of diverticulitis. The severity of an individual's diverticulitis can range from a minor abscess to a massive perforation or infection of the intestine. Constipation, diarrhea, boating, thin stools, abdominal swelling, and abdominal pain can indicate a patient's diverticulitis has caused the development of a bowel obstruction. The severe swelling and inflammation that occurs in the intestine of an affected individual are what can cause an obstruction in the intestine that does not allow food to pass.

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin and metronidazole are typically prescribed if an infection is present, and patients with diverticulitis are often advised to follow a diet of clear liquids for a few days. Some individuals may need to have needle drainage or a bowel resection. Since infections can progress rapidly, patients who develop a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher should see their doctor immediately, and immediate attention is also necessary if vomiting persists for more than two days or if the patient cannot keep liquids down for twenty-four hours. Surgery or intravenous medication is needed to treat a patient affected by a bowel obstruction caused by diverticulitis.

Reveal additional causes linked to bowel obstructions now.