Bowel obstruction

Bowel Obstruction

Bowel obstruction (pronunciation: /ˈbaʊəl ɒbˈstrʌkʃən/), also known as intestinal obstruction, is a medical condition that disrupts the normal movement of the digestive tract.

Etymology

The term "bowel obstruction" is derived from the Latin words "bouel" meaning intestine, and "obstructionem" meaning a blocking.

Definition

Bowel obstruction is a blockage that prevents food and fluids from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon). It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including adhesions, hernias, tumors, and certain inflammatory bowel diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bowel obstruction can include abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and sepsis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bowel obstruction typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. In some cases, a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be used to visualize the blockage.

Treatment

Treatment for bowel obstruction depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. It may involve medication, nasogastric tube placement, or surgery. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications may be recommended.

Related Terms

• Adhesions
• Hernias
• Tumors
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Sepsis
• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Nasogastric tube

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Bowel obstruction
• Wikipedia's article - Bowel obstruction

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