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A bowel obstruction is a blockage in the intestines that prevents gas, fluids, or food from moving through the intestines normally. Many different problems can cause a bowel obstruction. Some examples are scar tissue from past surgeries (adhesions), certain types of hernias, cancer, twisting of the intestines (volvulus), or diverticulitis.
Symptoms of a bowel obstruction include:
A suspected bowel obstruction needs to be evaluated by a doctor. It may require medical or surgical treatment.
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kenneth Bark MD - General Surgery, Colon and Rectal Surgery & JoLynn Montgomery PA - Family Medicine
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