Colon Obstruction

Colon Obstruction

Blockages of the intestines in the digestive tract can result in several digestive problems such as vomiting, abdominal cramps, fecal vomiting and constipation. These are mainly due to a colon obstruction than can lead to colon cancer. The large intestine is composed of the colon and rectum. Stools are formed in the colon which is then dumped outside the body by the rectum through the anal canal. Blockages in the colon are referred to as colonic obstruction.

Causes of Colon obstruction

There are several causes of colon obstruction. However, polyps that can lead to the formation of malignant tumors are one of the main causes of colon obstruction. Hernias and tumors can physically block your intestine either partially or completely. Inflammation of the colon can also cause an obstruction. Adhesions are rarely the cause of any obstruction in the colon. However, the common causes are cancer, diverticulitis, volvulus or twisting of the colon, impacted feces and strictures or narrowing of the colon. If you have undergone abdominal surgery, a bowel resection or pelvic surgery, there is an increased risk of developing a colon obstruction. A history of constipation may also be a sign of an obstruction, while Crohn’s disease is known to cause the intestine wall to thicken, thereby causing an obstruction in the colon.

Symptoms of Colon Obstruction

Among the common symptoms of colon obstruction are fever, tenderness and swelling of the abdominal region, nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Any obstruction prevents food and fluid from passing through, causing severe complications where the blocked parts of the colon can become necrotic. This in turn can lead to severe infections, toxic shock syndrome, kidney failure and perforation of the colon as well. Obstructions can stop the blood supply to the colon, causing the lining of the colon wall to die. An infection of the lining leads to peritonitis, which is a life threatening condition that requires immediate treatment.

Treatment for Colon Obstruction

Your doctor will usually conduct a physical examination to assess your condition. In addition, an ultrasound, CT scan and abdominal X-ray will help the doctor determine the type of obstruction and whether the obstruction is partial or complete. Treatment largely depends on the type of obstruction. In order to stabilize your condition, you may be given fluids through an intravenous line, while a nasogastric tube will be introduced through your nose to your stomach to flush out fluids from the intestines. When the obstruction does not clear, surgery may be required where the obstruction is removed. If the obstruction is partial, colon cleansing may be performed in order to clear the way for surgery, if required.

The buildup of unfriendly bacteria due to colon obstruction can cause a series of complications. Therefore, it is advisable to keep your colon healthy with natural treatments such as colon hydrotherapy. The possibility of colon obstruction is greatly reduced when you use colon cleansing products that are hundred percent organic, with no known side effects at all. They help clean your colon from food and toxins that accumulate over time.