MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Bowel Obstruction
A bowel obstruction is a blockage that stops food, fluid and gas passing through the intestine. It causes pain, vomiting and a swollen tummy, and is a medical emergency.
Causes & risk factors
- Adhesions (scar tissue) from previous surgery
- A hernia trapping a loop of bowel
- Bowel cancer or other growths
- Severe constipation or impacted stool
- Twisting of the bowel (volvulus) or inflammation
Common symptoms
- Crampy tummy pain that comes in waves
- Vomiting, sometimes green or foul-smelling
- A swollen, distended tummy
- Being unable to pass wind or stool
- Loud gurgling then a silent tummy
Tests & diagnosis
- Abdominal X-ray
- CT scan of the abdomen
- CBC
- Electrolytes
- Kidney function
Treatment & management
- Hospital admission with fluids into a vein and nothing by mouth
- A tube through the nose to empty the stomach (decompression)
- Some blockages settle with this rest; others need surgery
- Surgery to relieve the blockage or remove the cause
- Treat the underlying cause — hernia, adhesions or a growth
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe tummy pain with vomiting and a swollen tummy — seek emergency care
- Being unable to pass wind or stool
- A hard, very tender or rigid abdomen
- Fever with these symptoms
Frequently asked questions
Is a bowel obstruction an emergency?
Yes. A blocked bowel can swell, lose its blood supply or burst if untreated. Severe tummy pain with vomiting and no passage of wind or stool needs urgent hospital care.
Does bowel obstruction always need surgery?
Not always. Partial blockages, especially from adhesions, may settle with bowel rest, fluids and a stomach tube. Complete or worsening blockages usually need surgery.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.