What are the causes of ileus?
Causes of paralytic ileus may include:
- Bacteria or viruses that cause intestinal infections (gastroenteritis)
- Chemical, electrolyte, or mineral imbalances (such as decreased potassium level)
- Abdominal surgery.
- Decreased blood supply to the intestines.
- Infections inside the abdomen, such as appendicitis.
What is acute ileus?
Ileus is a temporary arrest of intestinal peristalsis. It occurs most commonly after abdominal surgery, particularly when the intestines have been manipulated. Symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and vague abdominal discomfort.
Who is at risk for an ileus?
The biggest risk factor for ileus is having abdominal surgery. 1 When it comes to the complications for which people come back to the hospital and are admitted again shortly after having abdominal surgery, ileus is the second most common.
How is ileus diagnosed?
Diagnosis focuses on a review of medical history and a physical assessment. Imaging tests such as an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound imaging, or barium enema may also be used to diagnose the ileus. Treatment typically involves bowel rest, rehydration, and discontinuing offending medications.
What is ileus and what causes it?
Ileus is often caused by abdominal infections like appendicitis. An ileus is either a complete or partial blockage of a portion of either the large or small intestine. Causes of ileus include abdominal infections and the handling of intestines during abdominal surgery.
What is the treatment for ileus?
Treatment of ileus involves continuous nasogastric suction, npo status, IV fluids and electrolytes, a minimal amount of sedatives, and avoidance of opioids and anticholinergic drugs. Maintaining an adequate serum potassium level (> 4 mEq/L [> 4 mmol/L]) is especially important.
What are the different types of ileus treatment?
Treatment for a paralytic ileus starts by identifying the underlying cause. If medicine is the cause, a doctor may be able to prescribe another medication to stimulate motility (intestine movement). An example is metoclopramide (Reglan) . Discontinuing the medications that caused the ileus, if possible, can also help.
What does ileus mean in medical terms?
Medical Definition of ileus. : obstruction of the bowel. specifically : functional obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract and especially the small intestine that is marked by the absence of peristalsis , is usually accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and sometimes nausea and vomiting, and typically occurs following abdominal surgery.