Intestinal obstruction is the total or partial occlusion of the lumen of the intestine that prevents normal transit through the intestine.
Mechanical causes include the presence of scar tissue that forms after surgery, foreign bodies, gallstones, hernias, fecal impaction, the introduction of one segment of the intestine into another, tumors, twisting of the intestine, etc.
It manifests with a picture of abdominal pain and distension, accompanied in most cases by nausea and vomiting, bad breath, constipation or diarrhea and inability to evacuate gases on some occasions.
Diagnosis requires a detailed clinical history, a complete physical examination, blood tests and imaging tests.
Treatment involves proper hydration, absolute diet, placement of a tube through the nose into the stomach or intestine, and possible administration of antibiotics and surgical intervention.
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