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bowel obstruction

(BOW-ul ub-STRUK-shun)
A partial or complete block of the small or large intestine that keeps food, liquid, gas, and stool from moving through the intestines in a normal way. Bowel obstructions may be caused by a twist in the intestines, hernias, inflammation, scar tissue from surgery, and certain types of cancer, such as cancers of the stomach, colon, and ovary. They may also be caused by conditions that affect the muscles of the intestine, such as paralysis. Signs and symptoms may include pain and swelling in the abdomen, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and problems passing gas. Most bowel obstructions occur in the small intestine. Also called intestinal obstruction.
More Information
Drawing showing a large mass of dark brown stool in the large intestine caused by a tumor blockage. The tumor is at the end of the large intestine just before the rectum. Also shown are other parts of the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, rectum, and anus.Enlarge this image in new window
A bowel obstruction is a serious condition that occurs when the small intestine or large intestine becomes blocked. The blockage stops food and stool from moving through the intestines. A bowel obstruction can be caused by certain cancers and cancer treatments.
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