Healthopedia.com - Bowel Obstruction: Prevention & Expectations (Intestinal Obstruction)

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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Bowel Obstruction: Prevention & Expectations
Category : Health Centers > Digestive System

Bowel Obstruction

Alternate Names : Intestinal Obstruction

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Usually, nothing can be done to prevent a bowel obstruction. A person who has had an obstruction from hard stools may be given stool softeners to prevent a repeat obstruction.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

The bowel may develop a tear, called an intestinal perforation, or have its blood supply cut off. A lack of blood supply to the bowel can cause the tissue to die. A condition know as gangrene may develop as a result. These are both serious complications that may result in severe infections and death.

What are the risks to others?

A bowel obstruction is not contagious, and poses no risks to others.

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Bowel Obstruction: Diagnosis & Tests		Bowel Obstruction: Treatment & Monitoring

Author: Adam Brochert, MD
Reviewer: Melissa Sanders, PharmD
Date Reviewed: 07/27/01

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Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006