What are the four major manifestations of intestinal obstruction?

Generally, the manifestations of intestinal obstruction include symptoms such as abdominal distension, abdominal pain, vomiting, cessation of flatus and defecation, and changes in bowel sounds. It is recommended to consult a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Abdominal Distension

Due to the retention of intestinal contents at the obstructed site, gas and fluid accumulate in the proximal bowel, causing a sensation of abdominal distension. Because of a lower level of obstruction or loss of intestinal motility, abdominal distension is more pronounced in cases of low intestinal obstruction and paralytic intestinal obstruction, whereas abdominal distension may be relatively mild in high intestinal obstruction.

2. Abdominal Pain

When intestinal contents cannot pass normally through the intestinal lumen, pressure builds up in the proximal bowel segment, causing abdominal pain. This pain typically presents as paroxysmal cramping pain and is accompanied by increased bowel sounds. The pain may become more severe and frequent as the obstruction worsens, and abdominal pain is particularly pronounced in mechanical intestinal obstruction.

3. Vomiting

Intestinal obstruction causes retrograde peristalsis in the bowel, leading to vomiting. The nature and timing of the vomitus depend on the location of the obstruction. Since the obstruction is closer to the stomach in cases of high intestinal obstruction, vomiting occurs earlier and more frequently, whereas vomiting in low intestinal obstruction appears relatively later.

4. Cessation of Flatus and Defecation

Intestinal obstruction causes blockage of the intestinal lumen, preventing the smooth passage of intestinal contents, which may result in the cessation of flatus and defecation. However, some patients with high intestinal obstruction may still pass small amounts of stool or gas during the early stages of obstruction, which does not necessarily rule out the possibility of intestinal obstruction.

5. Changes in Bowel Sounds

Bowel sounds reflect the status of intestinal peristaltic function. When intestinal obstruction occurs, abnormal intestinal peristalsis may lead to changes in bowel sounds. For example, due to compression or blockage of the intestine, peristaltic activity is enhanced in mechanical intestinal obstruction, resulting in hyperactive bowel sounds.

In daily life, it is advisable to choose low-fat, easily digestible foods such as porridge, noodles, and vegetables to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.