A blockage in the intestinal tract is referred to as an intestinal obstruction. The blockage usually occurs in the small intestine or colon and may be partial or complete. Partial blockages significantly hinder the movement of contents through the digestive tract, while complete blockages prevent any contents from passing through. A blockage in the intestinal tract is a serious condition that requires medical treatment.
Types
There are two major types of intestinal obstructions: mechanical and paralytic ileus, which is also called pseudo-obstruction. A mechanical obstruction occurs when there is something that is actually blocking the passageway of the intestines. This can be a structural deformity or a physical blockage. A mechanical blockage in the intestinal tract is further broken down into obstruction of the small intestine and obstruction of the colon, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. A pseudo-obstruction occurs when intestinal contents can't pass through because the intestines don't function properly. Although the signs of the two types of obstruction are the same, there is no physical blockage present in a pseudo-obstruction.
Causes
The different types of obstructions have different causes. The primary cause of a mechanical obstruction of the small intestine, which is the most common type of blockage, is the formation of bands of fibrous tissue. The fibrous bands bind areas of the small intestine and physically prevent contents from passing through. These bands can be present at birth, but usually form after intestinal surgery, according to Mayo Clinic. Other causes of a mechanical small bowel obstruction include hernias, tumors, gallstones, twisting of the intestine and inflammation and scarring associated with Crohn's disease. Mechanical obstructions of the colon can be caused by cancer, diverticulitis, twisting of the colon, impacted fecal matter, narrow areas in the colon and foreign items that have been swallowed. Pseudo-obstruction occur more frequently in infants and children and causes include surgery complications, electrolyte disturbances, decreased blood supply to the area, abdominal infection and kidney or lung disease.
Symptoms
Regardless of the type of obstruction, symptoms of a blockage in the intestinal tract are generally the same. These symptoms include abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, breath odor, abdominal swelling, abdominal tenderness and fever. Symptoms of an obstruction in the small intestine usually occur quickly and suddenly, while symptoms of an obstruction in the bowel are usually milder and appear gradually, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Treatment
Those with a blockage in the intestinal tract are hospitalized and given intravenous fluids immediately. A nasogastric tube will then be inserted into the nose and down through the stomach. This tube sucks air and fluid out of the intestines and allows the fullness and swelling of the intestines and abdomen to decrease. In a majority of cases, intravenous fluids and a nasogastric tube are sufficient treatments. If the blockage does not go away, surgery may be required to correct it.
Complications
If left untreated, a blockage in the intestinal tract may prevent proper nutrient and fluid absorption. This can lead to vomiting, dehydration and shock. A blockage may also cut off the blood supply to the intestines and result in intestinal tissue death, according to Medline Plus. This may lead to gangrene or peritonitis, a serious infection of the stomach lining.
