A bowel obstruction occurs when something blocks part of your small or large intestine, preventing the normal passage of digested food, liquid, and gas. The blockage can be partial or complete. If not treated promptly, it may lead to serious complications such as infection, tissue damage, or perforation.
Symptoms depend on where the obstruction is and how severe it becomes. The most frequent signs include:
Various conditions can trigger a bowel obstruction by narrowing or blocking the intestinal tract:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we deliver rapid, patient-centered care for bowel obstructions-combining advanced imaging, tailored medical or surgical treatment, and ongoing prevention strategies. Our compassionate team guides you every step of the way to relieve symptoms, reduce complications, and restore your digestive health. Don't wait: book your appointment today to get the clarity and relief you need.
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.
Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, absence of bowel movements or gas, persistent vomiting, and an inability to eat. Palliative care can help manage these symptoms and improve comfort.
An X-ray can reveal abnormal gas patterns and fluid levels in the intestines, indicating the location and severity of a blockage.
No. A bowel obstruction requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment to prevent serious complications.
A closed loop obstruction occurs when a segment of intestine is blocked at two points, trapping contents and cutting off blood supply. This condition requires urgent surgical intervention.
A small bowel obstruction X-ray is performed to detect trapped gas and fluid levels, confirming the presence and location of a blockage.
Leading causes include scar tissue (adhesions) from prior surgeries, Crohn's disease, tumors, and hernias that trap intestinal segments.
The ICD-10 code for partial small bowel obstruction is K56.5.
Treatment typically includes bowel rest, intravenous fluids to correct dehydration, nasogastric tube placement to relieve pressure, and close hospital monitoring.
Yes. A closed loop obstruction can cut off blood supply to the bowel, leading to tissue death and requiring immediate surgery.
The ICD-10 code for large bowel obstruction is K56.4.
