Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
What is Intestinal Obstruction?
Intestinal obstruction occurs when the normal passage of food, fluids and gas through the intestine becomes partially or completely blocked. It may develop due to previous abdominal surgery, adhesions, hernia, intestinal tumours, twisting of the intestine or inflammation.
Early evaluation is important because some cases of intestinal obstruction can become serious and may require urgent treatment or surgery.
The common symptoms include:
- Severe or cramping abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Abdominal swelling or distension
- Constipation
- Inability to pass gas or stool
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness and dehydration
When these symptoms occur together, particularly severe abdominal pain with vomiting and abdominal swelling, medical attention should not be delayed.
Some common causes include:
- Previous abdominal surgery and adhesions
- Inguinal or abdominal hernia
- Intestinal tumours
- Twisting of the intestine (volvulus)
- Inflammatory conditions
- Severe intestinal inflammation
- Other structural abnormalities
The exact cause needs to be identified before deciding the appropriate treatment.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the obstruction. Some patients may improve with fluids, bowel rest and medical management.
However, surgery may be required in cases of:
- Complete intestinal obstruction
- Bowel perforation
- Strangulated bowel
- Reduced blood supply to the intestine
- Peritonitis
- Failure of conservative treatment
The appropriate treatment is decided after clinical examination and necessary investigations.
Severe abdominal pain + persistent vomiting + abdominal swelling + inability to pass stool or gas may indicate a serious intestinal obstruction and requires urgent medical evaluation.
Do not delay emergency care if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening. Gangasheel Hospital provides 24x7 emergency medical and surgical care in Bareilly.
Intestinal obstruction should not be ignored, as delayed treatment can sometimes lead to serious complications such as bowel damage, perforation or infection.
Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help prevent complications and support better recovery.
For evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal surgical conditions, consult the Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Gangasheel Hospital, Bareilly.
Yes, comprehensive evaluation, 24x7 emergency medical management and advanced gastrointestinal surgical treatment for intestinal obstruction are available at Gangasheel Hospital, Bareilly, supported by experienced gastroenterologists, advanced OT facilities, and dedicated ICU care.