Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is a rare condition with symptoms that resemble those caused by a blockage, or obstruction, of the intestines, also called the bowel. However, when a health care provider examines the intestines, no blockage exists.
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is caused by nerve or muscle problems that prevent the intestines from contracting normally to move food, fluid, and air through the intestines. Symptoms may include cramps, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, and occasionally diarrhea.
- abdominal swelling or bloating, also called distension
- abdominal pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- diarrhea
The main treatment is nutritional support to prevent malnutrition and antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. Disorders that may coexist and worsen symptoms of pseudo-obstruction–such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), gastroesophageal reflux, or bacterial overgrowth–need to be identified and treated.
