Causes and risk factors:
Intestinal obstruction is most commonly caused due to mechanical blockage of the passages due to hernias, tumors or adhesions. Obstruction due to worm infestation can also occur. Certain diseases like intestinal intussusceptions, gall stones, diverticulitis, Parkinsonism etc predispose intestinal obstruction. Use of certain medications, infection, abdominal and pelvic surgery can also lead to obstruction.
Clinical presentations:
Intestinal obstruction can occur either be of small intestine or large intestine. It can complete or partial. Inability to pass stools and gases is the most important feature seen in intestinal obstruction. Due to this there is bloating of abdomen. Patient experiences pain in abdomen. It is sharp and severe cutting type of pain. Patient complaints of cramps in abdomen. It is felt in the umbilical or epigastric region. Due to swelling tenderness is present. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation are seen .Loud rumbling and gurgling sound in the abdomen can be heard. Shock and oliguria are the serious signs which can be seen. Intestinal obstruction can lead to various complications like ischemia, infarction and strangulation.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Palpation of the abdomen is carried out. Barium enema, abdominal X-ray, and colonoscopy are the diagnostic investigations. Along with this Routine stool test, urine analysis, electrolyte levels, CT scan is done. Certain other investigations can also be done to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
Hospitalization is required in cases of intestinal obstruction. Nasogastric suction and IV fluids are started. Medications and injections are given to relief the pain. If the conservative line of treatment fails then surgical intervention is required. By surgery the obstruction is relieved by removing the damaged part or use of self expanding metal stent is done.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating obstruction. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms.
