Intestinal blockage symptoms

When waste of either fluids, gas or solids can not move normally through the intestines, it is the case of the intestinal blockage. The blockage may occur in the small intestine which is called small bowel obstruction or it may occur in the large intestine and that is then called large bowel or colonic obstruction. Ischemic bowel or bowel strangulation is the name used when there is a total cut off of blood supply. This is probably the most dangerous case of intestinal blockage and medical attention is needed as soon as possible. Intestinal blockage symptoms

The symptoms of intestinal blockage are pretty much the same whether the blockage is in the small or in the large intestine. Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of intestinal blockage. If the pain is located around the belly button it means that the blood supply has been cut off to that part of the intestine. However, if the pain is located below the belly button, it means that the blockage is in the large intestine. In both cases a person should go to the hospital as soon as possible.

Diarrhea and constipation will usually occur separately, depending on the fact whether the blockage is in the small or the large intestine. If a person is experiencing only partial blockage, gas and stool can be passed. However, if the blockage is complete, bowel movement will be utterly restricted.

Blockage in the small intestine will be probably seen due to the bloating of the lower abdomen. Bloating is usually accompanied with excessive gas. If the blockage is complete, the doctor will be able to find it out with the use of stethoscope. The doctor will hear high pitched sounds.

Vomiting usually occurs in the later stages of the illness and is caused by the blockage in the small intestine. Doctors can determine the location of the blockage by the color of the vomit. If it is green the blockage is in the upper part of the small intestine. Obstruction of the lower part produces purple vomit.

If a person has blood in the stool or experiences weight loss it is probably because the blockage is caused by cancer. Loss of appetite is another symptom.

Weakness, fatigue, urination problems, fever and abdominal swelling are some of the other symptoms of intestinal blockage. People should remember that it is important to go straight to the hospital in order to get rid of the intestinal blockage while it is in its early stages.