← All conditions / Bowel & abdominal conditions
Understanding the condition
Bowel obstruction is a partial or complete blockage. Causes include adhesions, hernias, tumors and inflammatory narrowing. Cramping, distention and vomiting are common; passing some stool does not reliably exclude a partial blockage.
What the evaluation looks for
Assessment combines the examination, laboratory tests and imaging to identify the cause and look for threatened bowel. Changes over time matter, so repeat examinations may be needed.
How treatment is chosen
Selected obstructions can improve with monitored hospital treatment, fluids and decompression. Others require surgery, particularly if bowel viability is threatened, perforation is suspected or the obstruction does not resolve. This is not a home trial of laxatives or pain medication.
Questions worth asking
- What is causing the blockage?
- What findings would change observation to surgery?
- How will hydration, nutrition and recovery be assessed?
When to seek help promptly
Persistent vomiting, severe pain, marked swelling or inability to pass gas requires urgent care.