Key Pointers
- Severe constipation and intestinal obstruction can cause similar symptoms but are not the same condition.
- Intestinal obstruction is a medical emergency that requires prompt assessment.
- Warning signs include abdominal distension, severe pain, vomiting, and inability to pass gas.
- Imaging tests such as a CT scan help confirm the diagnosis.
- Early medical evaluation can prevent serious complications.
What Is an Intestinal Obstruction?
An intestinal obstruction occurs when the normal flow of food, fluids, and gas through the intestines is partially or completely blocked. This blockage may happen in the small intestine or large intestine and prevents contents from moving forward.
Common causes include adhesions from previous surgery, hernias, tumours, severe inflammation, or impacted stool. Unlike constipation, obstruction cannot be relieved with laxatives or dietary changes alone.
How Is Severe Constipation Different from a Blocked Bowel?
Constipation usually refers to infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, or difficulty passing stool. While uncomfortable, it is often related to diet, dehydration, medications, or lifestyle factors.
A blocked bowel, however, involves a physical or functional blockage. This means stool and gas cannot pass at all, leading to increasing pressure inside the intestines. Treating obstruction as simple constipation can delay urgent care.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Severe Constipation?
Severe constipation may cause:
- Fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Hard or dry stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
- Mild abdominal discomfort or bloating
Symptoms usually develop gradually and may improve with hydration, fibre intake, or medical advice.
What Are the Warning Signs of Intestinal Obstruction?
Symptoms of intestinal obstruction are often more intense and may worsen quickly. These include:
- Abdominal distension (noticeable swelling or bloating)
- Severe or cramping abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting, sometimes with bile or stool-like material
- Inability to pass stool or gas
- Fever or rapid heartbeat in more advanced cases
These symptoms require urgent medical attention.
Why Does Vomiting Occur with a Blocked Bowel?
When the intestines are blocked, contents back up instead of moving forward. This pressure can trigger nausea and vomiting. Vomiting associated with obstruction often does not relieve discomfort and may worsen dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Vomiting together with abdominal distension and pain is a key sign that the issue may be more serious than constipation.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Intestinal Obstruction?
Diagnosis begins with a clinical assessment and physical examination. To confirm obstruction and identify the cause, doctors may order:
- CT scan of the abdomen, which is commonly used to detect blockages
- X-rays or ultrasound, depending on the situation
- Blood tests to assess infection, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance
Early diagnosis allows timely treatment and reduces the risk of complications such as bowel perforation or infection.
What Are the Treatment Options for Intestinal Obstruction?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. Options may include:
- Hospital admission for observation and bowel rest
- Intravenous fluids and electrolyte correction
- Nasogastric tube placement to relieve pressure
- Surgery, if the obstruction does not resolve or if there is a risk of bowel damage
Management is individualised based on each patient’s condition.
FAQs About Intestinal Obstruction and Constipation
1. Can severe constipation turn into bowel obstruction?
In some cases, prolonged stool impaction can contribute to obstruction, especially in older adults or those with underlying conditions.
2. How long can constipation last before it becomes dangerous?
Constipation lasting more than a few days with worsening pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas should be evaluated by a doctor.
3. Is abdominal bloating always a sign of obstruction?
No. Mild bloating can occur with constipation or indigestion, but persistent abdominal distension with pain and vomiting is concerning.
4. Are laxatives safe if obstruction is suspected?
No. Laxatives should not be used if obstruction is suspected, as they may worsen symptoms.
5. When should I go to the emergency department?
Seek urgent care if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, swelling of the abdomen, or cannot pass stool or gas.
When Bowel Symptoms Should Not Be Ignored
Constipation is common, but intestinal obstruction is not. Knowing the difference between the two can help prevent serious complications. When symptoms are severe, persistent, or rapidly worsening, medical evaluation is essential.
Severe Abdominal Symptoms Need Prompt Attention
At the Clinic for Digestive Surgery, patients can receive evaluation and management for bowel-related symptoms, including suspected intestinal obstruction. Diagnostic imaging such as CT scans may be arranged to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Locations:
- Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
- Mount Alvernia Hospital
Contact: +65 6570 2702 | [email protected]
Book a Consultation to have your symptoms assessed promptly.
