Large Bowel (Intestinal) Obstruction (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)
A blockage that hinders the normal passage of digested material through the large intestine, the last section of the digestive system, is referred to as a large intestine obstruction, also known as a colorectal obstruction. A tumor, impacted feces, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or a volvulus (twisting of the gut) are only a few causes of blockage.
Large intestine obstruction symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, cramps, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. In extreme circumstances, the obstruction may burst the gut, resulting in peritonitis, a potentially fatal illness.
The origin and extent of a large intestine obstruction will determine the appropriate course of treatment. Enemas or drugs may be used to treat mild cases, but surgery to remove the obstruction or a section of the intestine may be necessary to treat more severe cases. In some circumstances, a stent may be placed to clear the obstruction and restore normal flow.
This article covers the following topics :
What exactly is an obstruction of the big intestine?
The final portion of the digestive system that absorbs water, electrolytes, and nutrients from the remaining digested material is the large intestine, also referred to as the colon. The cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anus are some of the segments that make up the large intestine. When there is a blockage that prevents the regular movement of digested material through the large intestine, it is referred to as colorectal obstruction, also known as large intestine obstruction.
Causes:
Occlusion of the large intestine can happen for a number of causes, including:
1-Tumors: A proliferation of aberrant cells can clog the colon’s lumen and cause an obstruction.
2-Fecal impaction is when stool builds up in the rectum and becomes hard and challenging to pass.
3-Diverticulitis: An infection and inflammation of the tiny pouches or sacs that occur in the lining of the colon.
4-Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Chronic digestive system inflammation can result in scarring and colon constriction, which can clog the colon.
5-Volvulus: When the gut twists, it may obstruct the blood supply to the affected area and result in a blockage.
Symptoms:
Depending on the reason and extent of the obstruction, the symptoms of a large intestine obstruction can change. Some typical signs include:
1-Abdominal discomfort: Lower abdominal pain that is typically crampy or colicky.
2-Bloating: An abdominal sense of fullness or swelling.
3-Constipation consists of irregular bowel movements or trouble passing stool.
4-Diarrhea: Watery, loose stools that may be accompanied by urgency and a sense that the body is not completely removing waste.
5-Nausea and vomiting: Experiencing nausea or vomiting.
6-Rectal bleeding, or blood in the stool or on the toilet paper, is number six.
In extreme circumstances, the obstruction may burst the gut, resulting in peritonitis, a potentially fatal illness.
Diagnosis:
Large intestine obstruction is often diagnosed using a combination of physical exam, medical history, and imaging studies including X-rays, CT scans, or colonoscopies. Blood tests may also be used to look for indicators of inflammation or infection.
Treatment:
The origin and extent of a large intestine obstruction will determine the appropriate course of treatment. Laxatives or enemas can be used to soften and eliminate the impacted stool in mild occurrences of the condition. A manual disimpaction could be required in some circumstances to manually remove the stool.
Surgery to remove the obstruction or a section of the intestine may be necessary in more severe situations. In some circumstances, a stent may be placed to clear the obstruction and restore normal flow.
Prevention:
Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important for preventing large intestine obstruction. This includes getting regular exercise and consuming lots of water to encourage regular bowel movements. Additionally, it’s critical to consult a doctor if you have ongoing stomach pain, chronic constipation, or any other signs of a large intestine obstruction.
What is the large intestine (large bowel)?
The big bowel, commonly referred to as the colon or large intestine, is the last organ of the digestive system. It is a lengthy, muscular tube that collects the small intestine’s digested matter, absorbs water, electrolytes, and nutrients, and creates feces for disposal.
The cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anus are among the segments of the large intestine. Undigested food from the small intestine is received by the cecum, a pouch-like structure at the start of the large intestine. The transverse colon spans the upper abdomen, the descending colon descends down the left side of the abdomen, and the ascending colon moves up the right side. The descending colon and the rectum are joined by the sigmoid colon, an S-shaped structure.
The remainder of the digested material is absorbed by the large intestine, which also consolidates it into feces and stores it until it can be removed by the anus. The body’s fluid and electrolyte balance is also maintained by the large intestine, which also harbors helpful bacteria that support immunological and digestive health.
How frequently do large bowel blockages occur?
Although less often than small bowel blockages, large bowel obstructions can nonetheless happen to both sexes at any age. Since big bowel blockages manifest differently in different people and can be challenging to diagnose, it is impossible to determine the actual occurrence of this ailment.
According to some research, big bowel blockages account for 10–15% of all intestinal obstructions, with the left colon and rectum being the most common sites. Older people, people with a history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or people who have had previous abdominal surgery are more likely to experience large bowel blockages.
Depending on the underlying reason, the incidence of big bowel obstruction may change as well. For instance, colorectal cancer, which is more common in older persons, is a common cause of big bowel blockage. Younger persons are more likely to develop diverticulitis, another common cause of a major intestinal obstruction.
Large bowel obstructions are a very uncommon illness overall, but they can have negative effects if they are not identified and treated right once. It’s crucial to contact a doctor if you feel chronic abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or other symptoms of big bowel blockage because these symptoms might mirror those of other illnesses.
Why do obstructions in the big bowel occur?
A large bowel obstruction can result from a number of conditions that prevent the normally occurring passage of digested food through the large intestine. The following are some typical reasons of a major bowel obstruction:
1-Colorectal cancer: An expansion of abnormal cells in the colon or rectum might restrict the intestine’s lumen.
2-Diverticulitis is a disorder in which the intestinal lumen swells and narrows due to the inflammation and infection of tiny pouches or sacs that grow in the lining of the colon.
3-Volvulus: When the gut twists, it may cause an obstruction that prevents the affected area’s blood flow from reaching there.
4-Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Chronic digestive system inflammation can result in scarring and colon constriction, which can clog the colon.
5-Fecal impaction: This happens when stool builds up in the rectum and gets dense and challenging to expel, causing an obstruction.
6-Strictures or adhesions: These types of scar tissue can form as a result of abdominal surgery, radiation treatment, or other inflammatory disorders and cause the intestine to become constricted or narrowed.
7-Foreign objects: Rarely, foreign things like bones that have been ingested whole or other objects might clog the large intestine.
Generally speaking, both benign and malignant disorders can contribute to significant bowel blockage. If you have persistent abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or other signs of bowel obstruction, you should contact a doctor right once so that you can find the underlying reason and get the right care.
What signs and symptoms point to a blocked big bowel?
Depending on the underlying cause, the location of the obstruction, and the degree of the blockage, the symptoms of a major intestinal obstruction can change. The following are some typical signs of a significant intestinal obstruction:
1-Abdominal discomfort and cramping: The first and most prevalent sign of a major intestinal obstruction, this is frequently present. Cramping, bloating, or a sense of being overly full may accompany the discomfort, which can be severe, ongoing, or intermittent.
2-Constipation: A large intestinal obstruction may result in constipation or trouble passing stool. In rare instances, the fluid escaping around the obstruction may cause sporadic episodes of diarrhea.
3-Nausea and vomiting: If the obstruction is severe and the gut is unable to remove the food that has been digested, these symptoms may appear.
4-Abdominal swelling: The accumulation of gas and liquids can cause the abdomen to enlarge or become swollen.
5-Loss of appetite: Even with little meals, a large bowel obstruction might result in a diminished appetite or a feeling of fullness.
6-Rectal bleeding: If there is an underlying illness, such as colorectal cancer, or if the obstruction causes the colon’s walls to become irritated, this symptom may manifest.
Dehydration can result from vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of fluid consumption, which causes the body to lose fluids.
It is crucial to get medical help if you feel chronic abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or other symptoms of big bowel blockage because these symptoms might mirror those of other illnesses.
How is a significant bowel obstruction determined to be present?
Through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic procedures, a significant intestinal blockage can be identified. The following techniques are frequently used to identify a major intestinal obstruction:
1-Physical examination: The doctor will examine the abdomen physically to look for any swelling, discomfort, or other indications of obstruction.
2-Medical background: The physician will enquire about the patient’s medical background, particularly any past abdominal operations, ongoing illnesses, any ancestry of intestinal blockage or colon cancer.
3-Imaging testing: Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can help identify the obstruction’s source and provide a visual of the obstructed area. The results of these tests may also be used to detect problems like perforation or the development of an abscess.
4-Blood examinations: Blood examinations may be carried out to look for indications of infection, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances.
5-Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy can be done to see the obstruction up close and find out what’s causing it. A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum and into the colon during this surgery.
To confirm the diagnosis or assess the severity of the obstruction, additional tests could be required in some circumstances. The reason and degree of the obstruction will determine the course of treatment when a diagnosis has been made.
What side effects might a major bowel obstruction cause?
If left untreated, some of the consequences brought on by a large intestinal obstruction can be fatal. Some such issues include:
1-Bowel perforation is when the intestinal walls are under pressure from the obstruction and rip or rupture. The intestine’s contents may then seep into the abdominal cavity, increasing the risk of infection and other problems.
2-Intestinal ischemia: This problem occurs when the obstruction restricts or stops blood flow to the intestine’s afflicted region, causing tissue damage and potentially fatal complications.
3-Sepsis: When bacteria from the intestines reach the bloodstream, it can result in a dangerous infection called sepsis, which can cause organ damage and extensive inflammation.
4-Electrolyte imbalances: A large intestinal obstruction can result in electrolyte imbalances, which can cause issues like dehydration and muscle weakness.
5-Malnutrition: Prolonged obstruction can result in nutrient malabsorption, which can cause malnutrition and other health issues.
6-Fecal impaction: If fecal impaction is the origin of the obstruction, it may result in a buildup of hardened feces that is challenging to clear and may cause other problems.
Overall, if untreated, significant bowel blockage can be a dangerous and even fatal illness. If you encounter bowel obstruction symptoms, it’s critical to see a doctor right once so you can be properly diagnosed and treated.
How would one manage or treat a major intestinal obstruction?
A big bowel obstruction’s source and degree will determine how it is managed and treated. Sometimes the obstruction may go away on its own, but other times more aggressive therapy may be required. Managing and treating big bowel blockage frequently entails the following:
1-Intestine rest: To give the intestine a break and relieve pressure on the clogged area, the patient could be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking.
2-Intravenous fluids: Fluids can be given intravenously (IV) to maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration.
3-Nasogastric tube: To help alleviate pressure and eliminate gas and liquids from the intestine, a tube may be put through the nose and down into the stomach.
4-Medications: Although they are not always successful, medications like laxatives or enemas may be used to assist remove the obstruction.
5-Endoscopic procedures: If the obstruction is brought on by a tumor or foreign item, endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be utilized to remove or bypass it.
6-Surgery: To remove the obstruction or repair the damaged region of the intestine, surgery may be required in severe cases or if other therapies are ineffective.
The reason and extent of the obstruction, the patient’s general health and medical history, and the choice of treatment will all be factors in the decision. If you encounter signs of a major bowel obstruction, it’s critical to contact a doctor right away so you can get the proper care and avoid problems.
How may a big bowel obstruction be avoided?
Adopting good habits and staying away from risk factors that can make obstructions more likely are two ways to prevent a large intestinal obstruction. Following are some suggestions for avoiding major intestinal obstruction:
1-Eat a diet high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables to help prevent constipation and lower your risk of getting an obstruction.
2-Staying hydrated can help prevent dehydration and maintain regular bowel movements. Drink plenty of water and other drinks to stay hydrated.
3-Regular exercise can lower the chance of developing an obstruction and encourage good bowel function.
4-Managing chronic conditions: If you suffer from a chronic illness like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it’s crucial to work with your doctor to control your symptoms and lower the likelihood of complications.
5-Avoiding some medications can reduce the risk of constipation and intestinal obstruction. Examples of these drugs include opioids and anticholinergics. The risk of blockage can be decreased by avoiding certain drugs or managing their negative effects in conjunction with your doctor.
6-Seeking immediate medical attention: It’s critical to get treated right away if you encounter major bowel blockage symptoms such abdominal discomfort, bloating, or constipation in order to avoid problems.
You can lessen your chance of getting a big bowel blockage by implementing the advice in this article and working with your doctor to treat any underlying issues.
How likely is it that someone with a major bowel obstruction will recover?
The reason, degree, and promptness of treatment are just a few of the variables that affect the prognosis or outlook for persons with a major intestinal blockage. Most persons with major bowel obstructions are able to heal without experiencing any long-term consequences with timely and adequate treatment. Large intestinal blockage can cause serious, even fatal, problems such colon perforation, sepsis, or ischemia if it is left untreated or is severe.
People with minor or brief obstructions typically have a better prognosis than those with total or long-term obstructions. Surgery for a major intestinal obstruction may result in a prolonged recovery period, as well as the requirement for follow-up care and continuing monitoring.
If you encounter signs of a big bowel obstruction, it’s critical to see a doctor right away to receive the proper care and enhance your prognosis. The outlook for the majority of persons with significant bowel blockage is favorable with prompt intervention and adequate care.
When should I make a call to my doctor if I have a colon obstruction?
In the event that you see any of the following indications or symptoms of colon obstruction, you should contact your doctor right away:
1-Cramping or pain in the abdomen that doesn’t go away or becomes worse over time.
2-Bloating or abdominal distention.
3-Vomiting or nausea.
4-The inability to urinate or pass gas.
5-Constipation or diarrhea.
6-Appetite loss or unintentional weight loss.
7-Bloody stools or rectal bleeding.
8-Fever or infection-related symptoms include chills or an elevated white blood cell count.
9-Modifications in bowel habits or stool characteristics.
If you have a history of colon obstruction or are more likely to develop it as a result of a medical condition or past surgery, you should talk to your doctor about the warning signs and symptoms and create a plan for rapid examination and treatment if they materialize.
If you encounter any of these symptoms or signs, you should visit a doctor right once since colon obstruction can result in serious consequences and even life-threatening diseases if left untreated. Your healthcare professional can assist in identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms and offer the best course of action for symptom relief and problems avoidance.
What queries should I put to my doctor about a significant intestinal obstruction?
If you have been told you have a big bowel obstruction or you have worries about it, you might want to ask your doctor any of the following questions:
1-How was my significant bowel obstruction diagnosed, and what tests or examinations were performed?
2-Which of my available treatment options would you advise for me?
3-How long will I need to be in the hospital or be under observation, and what should I anticipate during this time?
4-What are the possible risks and side effects of the medication, and how likely are they to materialize?
5-Will I require surgery, and if so, what are the advantages and disadvantages of this process?
6-How can I control my symptoms at home, and when should I call you if they get worse or don’t get better?
7-Are there any dietary or lifestyle adjustments I should make to stop bowel blockage episodes from happening again?
8-How often will I need to visit you or another healthcare professional? What kind of monitoring or follow-up care will I require following treatment?
9-Are there any resources or support organizations that can assist me manage this condition or any long-term effects?
10-How can I lower my risk of experiencing another episode of a big intestinal obstruction?
You can better understand your diagnosis, available treatments, and anticipated results by asking these questions, which will also enable you to choose your care in an informed manner.