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:
- cramping abdominal (belly) pain. the pain may affect all or part of the belly area and may be severe.
- nausea and vomiting.
- an inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas.
- bloating.
a suspected bowel obstruction needs to be evaluated by a doctor. it may require medical or surgical treatment.