What are intestinal paralysis and bowel obstruction (ileus)?
Intestinal paralysis and bowel obstruction (ileus) are common and can cause many unpleasant symptoms. The muscles in the intestinal wall work continuously, contracting to move the intestinal contents forward during digestion. With conditions such as intestinal paralysis and bowel obstruction, this process can slow down for various reasons or even stop completely (ileus).
Intestinal paralysis
With intestinal paralysis, the muscles in the intestinal wall stop working, so the intestinal contents are no longer pushed forward. In most cases, this is caused by a serious infection, a neurological disorder, an accident or gastroenteritis. Certain medicines can cause severe constipation that may lead to intestinal paralysis.
Bowel obstruction
With a bowel obstruction, the passage of stool is blocked by a mechanical cause. Unlike intestinal paralysis, the muscles in the intestine are still working. The obstruction is often caused by an abscess, a piece of very hard stool, scar tissue from surgery or a tumour. The intestine can also twist around itself, blocking not only the passage of stool but also the blood supply.
Recognising intestinal paralysis and bowel obstruction
With intestinal paralysis, the intestine is completely inactive and no bowel sounds can be heard. Although the abdomen may become swollen, you may not feel pain. With a bowel obstruction, you may experience painful cramps and many, often loud, bowel sounds. Vomiting is also common. The closer the obstruction is to the mouth, the sooner vomiting tends to occur. If the blood supply is also cut off, the pain becomes constant and your general condition can deteriorate very quickly. Fever can occur with both intestinal paralysis and bowel obstruction.
Diagnosis
Do you have abdominal symptoms and suspect intestinal paralysis or bowel obstruction? Pay particular attention to the following symptoms and, if appropriate, consider intestinal testing:
- Prolonged constipation followed by vomiting. The vomit may look like coffee grounds with pieces in it.
- A swollen abdomen.
- A complete absence of bowel sounds and activity.
If you experience these symptoms, contact your GP immediately. If intestinal paralysis or bowel obstruction is suspected, your doctor can arrange further tests straight away. Blood tests may be needed to look for signs of infection. An X-ray and/or CT scan may also be performed.
What can be done about it?
If you suspect intestinal paralysis or bowel obstruction, it may be advisable not to eat or drink in case surgery is required. If your doctor suspects intestinal paralysis or bowel obstruction, you will be referred to hospital. There you may receive intravenous saline to restore your fluid balance. Whether you are treated with medication or surgery depends on the cause of the obstruction. If inflammation is present, you may also receive antibiotics.
Additional information
Do you recognise the symptoms described above and suspect intestinal paralysis or bowel obstruction? Contact your GP immediately.
