How to relieve intestinal obstruction

Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
Updated on September 17, 2024
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How to alleviate intestinal obstruction, which means how to treat intestinal obstruction. After the occurrence of intestinal obstruction, it is first important to clarify what intestinal obstruction is. Intestinal obstruction is characterized by cessation of gas and stool passage from the anus, and is usually accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and even fever. If intestinal obstruction occurs, firstly, do not eat or drink, and then carry out appropriate examinations to identify the cause of the obstruction. If it is adhesive obstruction, treatment generally includes fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, anti-inflammatory treatment, fluid replenishment, and enemas as symptomatic treatment measures, trying to keep the treatment as conservative as possible. If the obstruction is caused by a tumor, it is preferable to perform surgery to remove the obstruction based on a clear diagnosis, as this is the only effective treatment.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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Intestinal Obstruction Nursing Measures

Intestinal obstruction is primarily a disease that requires treatment, which involves fasting from water, gastrointestinal decompression, anti-inflammation treatments, enemas, and sometimes the auxiliary use of traditional Chinese medicine. The nursing measures for this condition build upon these treatments and involve further management of daily activities. Generally, patients with intestinal obstruction must be cautious with their diet to avoid overeating or consuming foods that are hard to digest or that could potentially form obstructions. Secondly, it is important to manage and ensure that patients avoid vigorous exercise, as such activity can lead to the recurrence of intestinal obstruction, especially if there are adhesions within the abdominal cavity.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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How is intestinal obstruction diagnosed?

The main clinical manifestations of intestinal obstruction include abdominal pain, abdominal distension, vomiting, and cessation of gas and bowel movements from the anus. During the physical examination, tenderness in the abdomen can be observed, as well as hyperactive bowel sounds. Laboratory tests may reveal increased red and white blood cell counts, and electrolyte imbalances. Supplementary examinations, such as abdominal X-ray films, can show dilation of the intestinal tube, air and fluid accumulation within the abdominal cavity, and the presence of fluid-air levels. Abdominal ultrasound can also reveal air and fluid accumulation in the intestinal tube. Through the above examinations, intestinal obstruction can be diagnosed.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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Is intestinal obstruction dangerous?

Whether intestinal obstruction is dangerous depends on the actual individualized level. If the obstruction has progressed to symptoms of peritonitis, and if intestinal necrosis cannot be ruled out, not performing timely exploratory laparotomy surgery could potentially endanger the patient's life. However, if it is just a mild incomplete obstruction, with signs of passing gas and stools, and the patient’s abdominal symptoms are not pronounced, and related examinations are not concerning, then the risk to the patient might be relatively smaller. Therefore, in such cases, it is not possible to generalize, and decisions need to be made based on the individual situation.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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Symptoms of intestinal obstruction

For symptoms of intestinal obstruction, the typical manifestations are abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and cessation of passing gas or stool. Most people may experience several of these symptoms; however, the severity of the symptoms depends on the location and condition of the obstruction. Once symptoms of intestinal obstruction occur, it is necessary to refrain from eating and then carry out appropriate examinations. Identifying the cause of the obstruction is crucial. If the obstruction is caused by tumor-related factors, surgical treatment should be considered based on a comprehensive assessment. If the obstruction is due to adhesions, conservative treatment methods should be adopted where possible.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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Can you fart with intestinal obstruction?

When the contents of the intestines cannot normally pass through the intestinal tract and be expelled from the body, it is called intestinal obstruction. The main clinical manifestations include abdominal pain, abdominal distension, vomiting, and the cessation of bowel movements and gas passage through the anus. Clinically, some cases of partial intestinal obstruction can still pass gas, and some cases of high intestinal obstruction may also allow gas accumulation below the blockage to be expelled through the anus. However, the ability to pass gas does not mean that the patient's condition has improved; continuous treatment and observation are still necessary.