In intestinal pseudo-obstruction, foods and liquids are unable to pass through the intestine, causing a build-up of food, fluid, and gas in all or part of the colon. The symptoms of this condition mimic
mechanical bowel obstruction
, but no blockage is found when doctors examine the intestine.
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is caused by problems with the muscles and nerves of the intestine.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors are thought to increase the risk of developing intestinal pseudo-obstruction:
- Surgery
- Abdominal hemorrhage
- Intestinal ischemia (insufficient blood supply to the digestive system)
- Inflammation (eg, infection)
- Trauma
- Stroke
- Metabolic problems
-
Fluid overload (eg,
congestive heart failure
)
- Other medical illnesses associated with pain
Symptoms of intestinal pseudo-obstruction may include:
- Cramps
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Reduction in bowel movements
- Loose stools
- Bacterial infections
- Malnutrition
- Muscle problems
- Bladder problems
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Other tests may include:
-
Abdominal
X-rays
—a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
- Abdominal CT Scan
—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Intravenous feeding may be necessary to help prevent malnutrition.
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help prevent bacterial infections due to your condition. In addition, medications can be used to treat muscle problems in the intestines.
In severe cases of intestinal pseudo-obstruction, surgery to remove part or your entire intestine may be necessary.
If the colon does not resume normal function after conservative management, the pressure build-up in the colon can be relieved by removing the trapped air with a
colonoscope
.
Many cases of intestinal pseudo-obstruction cannot be prevented. But certain measures can be taken after surgery to help avoid the complication of intestinal pseudo-obstruction. These measures include:
- Early oral feeding
- Gum chewing
- Fluid restriction
- Medications that inhibit opioid receptors
- Beta-blockers
Last reviewed August 2007 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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