Ileus is a type of bowel obstruction. It results when peristalsis stops. Peristalsis is the wavelike contractions that help push stool through the colon and small bowel.
Ileus is a “nonmechanical” bowel obstruction. The other type of obstruction is called a “mechanical” obstruction . Mechanical obstruction occurs when there is a physical blockage of the intestine.
Ileus may be caused by:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Risk factors for ileus include:
Symptoms of ileus may include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Diagnosis of ileus is usually based on symptoms and testing. Tests may include:
If ileus was caused by surgery, it will usually resolve within 48 to 72 hours. In other cases, the disease that caused the ileus needs to be treated. This may involve adjusting the dose of a medication or replacing electrolytes.
Other treatments may be used to help ease symptoms. These may include:
Patients who suffer from ileus should not be fed until the ileus has resolved.
A tube is inserted through the nose and into the stomach to remove digestive fluids. This will help relieve pain and bloating.
Fluids are given by vein to avoid dehydration. Electrolytes are given by vein to help the ileus resolve.
There are medications that increase peristalsis (ie, neostigmine, tegaserod) that can be used in selected patients to help ileus resolve.
A flexible tube may be inserted into the colon to relieve pressure.
Rarely, surgery is required to remove the part of the bowels affected.
RESOURCES:
The American College of Gastroenterology
http://www.acg.gi.org
American Gastroenterological Association
http://www.gastro.org
International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
http://www.iffgd.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Digestive Health Foundation
http://www.cdhf.ca/aboutcdhf.htm
The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology (CAG)
http://www.cag-acg.org/default.aspx
References:
Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine . 14th ed. McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Textbook of Gastroenterology . 4th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2003.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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