Causes of intestinal obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is usually caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, physiological abnormalities, trauma or pathological diseases. Specific manifestations may include abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal distension and even life-threatening in severe cases. Understanding the cause and seeking medical treatment in time are the keys to prevention and treatment.

1. Genetic factors

Some patients may have genetically related congenital anatomical abnormalities, such as intestinal dysplasia or intestinal torsion, which may lead to intestinal obstruction. For patients with a family history, it is important to perform regular intestinal health checks to understand whether there are potential anatomical abnormalities. Genetic testing technology related to mothers and babies can also screen risks in advance.

2. Environmental factors

Some external environmental conditions can also induce intestinal obstruction. For example, improper diet (consumption of large amounts of high-fiber or difficult-to-digest foods) may lead to accumulation of food residues and intestinal obstruction; long-term constipation leading to fecal impaction is also a potential cause. In order to avoid similar situations, attention should be paid to dietary diversification, such as daily intake of sufficient dietary fiber and water, avoid overeating, and develop regular bowel habits.

3. Physiological factors

Age plays an important role in the development of intestinal obstruction. Children are at higher risk of obstruction due to intussusception, while the elderly are more susceptible to obstruction due to decreased intestinal function or intestinal muscle relaxation. Adhesion tissue formation (such as postoperative adhesions) is also a common cause in adults. It is recommended that patients move more after surgery and avoid excessive bed rest to speed up the recovery of intestinal function after surgery.

4. Trauma

Traumatic intestinal injury may also lead to intestinal obstruction. For example, the intestine may be twisted due to blunt impact, or scarring may occur after injury to the intestinal wall. For patients who have experienced intestinal trauma, changes in digestive function should be monitored, and imaging examinations should be performed to assess the risk of obstruction if necessary.

5. Pathological diseases

Diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease), tumors, polyps, intestinal parasitic infections, etc. are also the main culprits of intestinal obstruction. These diseases may not have obvious symptoms in the early stage, but if allowed to develop, they may lead to serious consequences. If suspicious symptoms occur, it is recommended to conduct a detailed evaluation through imaging examinations (such as B-ultrasound or CT) as soon as possible, and take medication, endoscopy or surgery as needed.

summary

The pathogenesis of intestinal obstruction is complex and may be related to the combined effects of multiple factors. Promptly understanding possible causes and improving lifestyle habits can effectively reduce the risk. Once typical symptoms (such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to defecate, etc.) appear, you need to seek medical treatment immediately. Improving the condition through medication, surgery and other measures, combined with health management and regular examinations, can better protect intestinal health.