How to Treat Intestinal Blockage
Intestinal blockage or obstruction is a serious medical condition that should be treated right away. This condition can be very dangerous. Even partial intestinal blockages should be treated as quickly as possible. Many serious complications can result if an intestinal blockage is left untreated, such as infection of the abdominal cavity, tissue death in the intestinal wall, a break in the intestinal wall or even death.
Instructions
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Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately if you feel you may be suffering from an intestinal blockage. There are many reasons why you might develop a blockage, such as hernias, scar tissue, gallstones, hardened feces, tumors or an infection. If your bowel becomes twisted, this can also lead to an obstruction. If you feel you're at risk, contact your doctor right away.
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Tell your doctor all the symptoms you're experiencing, so he can determine the best course of treatment. Common symptoms of an intestinal blockage include constipation or diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps. If your doctor determines you do have an intestinal blockage, he'll discuss your options with you and decide the best course of treatment.
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Make sure you're prepared for the possibility of surgery. Surgery may be the best option for treating an intestinal blockage. If you need surgery, you'll most likely be hospitalized as soon as possible. The surgery involves inserting a nasogastric tube into your stomach or intestine through your nose. The material above the blockage is then removed through suction. Your doctor may need to remove a portion of your intestines in order to treat the blockage.
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Be aware that surgery might not be necessary. Another type of procedure may be more appropriate to treat an intestinal blockage. If the blockage is being caused by a twisted intestinal segment, for example, then an endoscope, or viewing tube, may be used to treat the blockage. The endoscope will be inserted by your doctor through the anus and into the large intestine. The tube is then inflated to relieve the blockage.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure you understand all your options and any risks involved before agreeing to surgery as a course of treatment. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.
