People who undergo abdominal surgery or experience chronic abdominal inflammation due to pelvic or abdominal infections or radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing abdominal adhesions, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Abdominal adhesions are thick, tough bands of connective tissue that attach to organs in the abdominal cavity and can alter the placement or interfere with the function of these organs. Many people with these adhesions do not develop symptoms; however, symptomatic people should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Abdominal Pain
The most common symptom associated with adhesions in the abdomen is chronic pain, NDDIC reports. The severity of abdominal pain symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending upon the extent of abdominal adhesion formation. If abdominal pain can't be adequately controlled with pain medication, a doctor may recommend surgery to release the abdominal adhesions.
Diarrhea or Bloating
People with abdominal adhesions can experience intestinal irritation as a symptom of this condition. Consequently, people can develop frequent bowel movement urges, called diarrhea, that produce loose, runny stools. Certain people can also experience abdominal bloating or cramping as symptoms of abdominal adhesions.
Bowel Obstruction
Abdominal adhesions can interfere with the normal flow of ingested food products through the intestine, a symptom called bowel obstruction. Symptoms associated with bowel obstruction include severe abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, constipation, nausea, vomiting and dehydration. Approximately 5 percent of people experience fatal complications due to a bowel obstruction, according to Harvard Health Publications at Harvard School of Medicine. If blood flow to the intestine is cut off by an abdominal adhesion, a life-threatening condition called bowel strangulation, people can develop additional symptoms, such as decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate and fever. Nearly 40 percent of people who develop a strangulated bowel experience fatal complications, Harvard Health Publications warns.
