When should you go to the hospital for a bowel obstruction?

In some cases, intestinal obstruction can cause serious and debilitating acute abdominal pain. If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain in addition to any of the above symptoms, seek emergency medical attention, immediately, by calling 911 or visiting an Emergency Room.

Can a bowel blockage cause abdominal pain?

Bowel Obstruction Symptoms Signs of an intestinal blockage will depend on how severe the obstruction is. But it almost always comes with belly pain, usually around your belly button, and cramping.

Is bowel obstruction serious?

Untreated, intestinal obstruction can cause serious, life-threatening complications, including: Tissue death. Intestinal obstruction can cut off the blood supply to part of your intestine. Lack of blood causes the intestinal wall to die.

How can a bowel obstruction cause death?

How long is hospital stay for bowel obstruction?

A bowel obstruction repair generally requires a hospital stay of seven days. Recovery after surgery is a gradual process. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, your general health, age, and other factors. Full recovery takes six to eight weeks.

How long can you live with a bowel blockage?

Without any fluids (either as sips, ice chips or intravenously) people with a complete bowel obstruction most often survive a week or two. Sometimes it’s only a few days, sometimes as long as three weeks. With fluids, survival time may be extended by a few weeks or even a month or two.

Is bowel obstruction fatal?

There are many potential causes of intestinal obstruction. Often, this condition can’t be prevented. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. An untreated intestinal obstruction can be fatal.

Can a bowel obstruction cause kidney failure?

A bowel obstruction, whether partial or complete, can lead to serious and life threatening conditions if left untreated. The intestine can get swollen from the trapped air, fluid, and food. This swelling can make the intestine less able to absorb fluid. This leads to dehydration and kidney failure.