Intestinal obstruction

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

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Definition

Intestinal obstruction is a blockage of your small intestine or colon that prevents food and fluid from passing through. Intestinal obstruction can be caused by many conditions, but it's most often the result of fibrous bands of tissue in the intestine (adhesions), hernias or tumors.

Not only can intestinal obstruction result in an array of uncomfortable signs and symptoms — including crampy abdominal pain and swelling of your abdomen, nausea and vomiting — if left untreated, intestinal obstruction can cause the blocked parts of your intestine to die. This tissue death can lead to perforation of the intestine, severe infection and shock.

Because of the serious complications that can develop from intestinal obstruction, seek emergency medical attention if you develop signs or symptoms of intestinal obstruction. With prompt medical care, intestinal obstruction can often be successfully treated.

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• 'Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health,' Second Edition (Softcover)