A colon obstruction occurs when intestinal adhesions, hernias, tumors, inflammation or other structural problems in the intestines block the passage through the large bowel. Obstructions can be partial or complete. While partial blockages can produce no symptoms or mild abdominal cramping, significant bowel obstructions can cause serious, potentially life-threatening symptoms if left untreated.
Bowel and Abdominal Symptoms
A colon (large bowel) obstruction produces a change in bowel habits and a number of abdominal symptoms that range in severity depending upon the extent of obstruction. Colon obstruction is characterized by severe constipation that progresses to obstipation (an inability to pass stool or gas). Abdominal fullness, bloating or enlargement (distension) and tenderness are common. Partial obstructions may cause abdominal cramping that comes and goes, while more significant blockages can cause severe, persistent cramping and pain.
Other Physical Symptoms
Individuals with a colon obstruction may experience other physical symptoms beyond abdominal discomfort. A foul breath odor, rapid pulse, fever and dehydration can occur. Nausea and vomiting may also develop, though vomiting is more common among those with a small bowel obstruction.
Serious Symptoms
If left untreated, a colon obstruction can progress to one or more serious conditions that require immediate medical care. As the blockage worsens, the bowel can become strangulated, cutting off the blood supply to parts of the intestine. The lack of blood can cause the intestinal wall to die. The ability of the bowel to absorb food, water and nutrients also diminishes, leading to a number of other physical symptoms, including nausea, vomiting and dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration can include dry mouth and tongue, dry skin, severe thirst, infrequent urination, rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. Those with a strangulated bowel also usually develop severe abdominal pain and tenderness accompanied by body-wide illness, including fever, low blood pressure and rapid heart rate.
Peritonitis, an infection of the lining of the intestines, may develop as a consequence of a strangulated bowel. When part of the intestine dies due to lack of blood, it may tear and become infected. Peritonitis is life-threatening and has many of the same symptoms as a strangulated bowel, including abdominal pain and tenderness, an inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement, nausea, vomiting, dehydration (thirst, decreased urine output), fever and chills. It may also lead to shock which causes abnormal breathing, dilated pupils, a weak pulse and cold, clammy and pale skin.
