What is the most common cause of small bowel obstruction?
Small bowel obstructions are usually caused by scar tissue, hernia, or cancer. In the United States, most obstructions occur as a result of prior surgeries. The bowel often forms bands of scar (called adhesions) after being handled during an operation.
How do you fix a small bowel obstruction?
Treatment includes intravenous (in the vein) fluids, bowel rest with nothing to eat (NPO), and, sometimes, bowel decompression through a nasogastric tube (a tube that is inserted into the nose and goes directly to the stomach).
What foods prevent small bowel obstruction?
Reduce tough, fibrous fruit and vegetables – chop these foods finely where possible (e.g. celery, mango). Avoid dried fruits, nuts & seeds. Strain fruit and vegetable juices and soups. Avoid wholegrain, high fibre breads and cereals.
Can you still poop with a partial bowel obstruction?
You may have pain, nausea, vomiting, and cramping. Most of the time, complete blockages require a stay in the hospital and possibly surgery. But if your bowel is only partly blocked, your doctor may tell you to wait until it clears on its own and you are able to pass gas and stool.
Can you still fart if you have a bowel obstruction?
Common symptoms are nausea and vomiting, crampy abdominal pain or discomfort, stomach distention, constipation and inability to pass gas (fart).
What foods should I avoid with a bowel obstruction?
Avoid vegetables that often cause gas (broccoli, cauliflower, beets, cabbage, brussels sprouts, lettuce, spinach, carrots, parsnips, turnips, cucumbers, zucchini, onions, green peas, radishes, corn). Avoid fruits that often cause gas (bananas, apples, grapes, raisins, prunes, melons).
How do doctors remove a bowel obstruction?
Sometimes, the surgery can be done using a laparoscope, which means smaller cuts are used. The surgeon locates the area of your intestine (bowel) that is blocked and unblocks it. Any damaged parts of your bowel will be repaired or removed. This procedure is called bowel resection.