Bowel obstruction happens when something blocks food, gas, or liquid from moving through your intestines. It can occur in the small or large bowel. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications.
Symptoms may appear suddenly or develop over time. Be alert for:
Several factors can block or narrow the intestinal tract:
If you’re experiencing pain, bloating, or can’t pass gas or stool, don't wait. Call GastroDoxs in Houston today to schedule your appointment. Our expert team will provide personalized diagnostics, compassionate care, and an effective treatment plan to help you find relief and get back to feeling your best.
We've successfully treated more than 464 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The ICD-10 code for small bowel obstruction is K56.611, which healthcare providers use for accurate diagnosis coding and billing.
At home, follow your doctor's dietary plan (often starting with clear liquids), drink plenty of fluids, rest, and report any worsening pain, vomiting, or fever right away.
Yes. If left untreated, obstruction can cause tissue death, perforation, and infection. Early medical intervention significantly reduces these life-threatening risks.
High-fiber or indigestible foods-such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, raw vegetables, and certain fruits-can sometimes trigger obstruction in susceptible individuals.
It means air is visible in the intestines on X-ray without clear blockage signs. Further tests (CT scan, endoscopy) are often needed to identify the cause.
Seek specialist care promptly if you experience persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating, or an inability to pass stool or gas. Early evaluation improves outcomes.
We offer IV fluids, bowel rest, nasogastric tube decompression, advanced imaging, endoscopy, and, if needed, surgical removal or bypass of the obstruction.
Diagnosis combines your symptoms and physical exam with blood tests, abdominal X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes endoscopic evaluation to locate and assess the blockage.
Yes. Small bowel obstruction often causes more vomiting, rapid dehydration, and crampy pain, while large bowel obstruction may lead to more pronounced distension and constipation.
Recovery typically begins with clear liquids, advances to soft foods, and includes follow-up visits. A personalized diet and activity plan help prevent recurrence.
