What Causes A Bowel Obstruction?

Infection

Infections such as gastroenteritis and appendicitis can sometimes lead to bowel obstructions. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a viral infection transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Patients with this infection could have a fever, and nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea are common. Symptoms tend to begin within one to three days of exposure, and patients may be ill for one to ten days. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, and symptoms typically have a sudden onset. Individuals with appendicitis could experience sharp, sudden pain on the right side of the lower abdomen, and the pain may worsen with coughing and walking. Nausea, vomiting, fever, constipation, and loss of appetite could also occur. This condition is considered a medical emergency, and patients with suspected appendicitis should seek immediate treatment at the emergency room. Surgery to remove the appendix is the standard treatment.

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