What You Should Know About Intestinal Ischemia

Intestinal ischemia is a condition in which the blood flow to the small intestine is restricted in some manner. The end result is a great deal of pain as well as an inability of the intestine and colon to function properly. If the condition is not corrected, permanent damage can take place, and may even lead to death.

Several causes for intestinal ischemia have been identified. Major surgery can cause trauma to the system and lead to the lack of proper blood flow to the colon. The development of a blood clot in an artery that supplies blood to the colon may also be the underlying reason for the ischemia. Scar tissue that leads to bowel obstruction may be present, or the ischemia may occur as a negative reaction to various medications. A trained physician will be able to identify the underlying causes and initiate treatments to help alleviate the pain and suffering.

There are a number of signs that indicate the development of intestinal ischemia. One of the more common manifestations is a drop in blood pressure to levels that are considered dangerously low. The individual will also develop what appears to be chronic constipation, even while feeling a constant need to eliminate waste. Even when bowel movements are possible, they are often painful, with blood appearing in the stool.

Fever and nausea are common signs of intestinal ischemia, with vomiting often accompanying the nausea. There is a constant sense of pain that increases as the condition worsens. The individual may begin avoiding food in hopes of easing the pain, which leads to a sudden and unhealthy loss of weight. In severe situations, the pain is so strong that the individual may believe he or she is experiencing appendicitis or attempting to pass a gallstone.

While intestinal ischemia can be fatal, it is highly treatable if treated in time. Treatments for intestinal ischemia focus on restoring the proper level of blood flow into the small intestine or colon. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary to identify the underlying cause. The scope of treatment may involve surgery to deal with scar tissue or the presence of any type of tumor or blockage. In some cases, medication to help ease the pain will be administered. If necessary, the surgery may involve removing a damaged portion of the intestine or rerouting the connection to the colon in order to facilitate proper blood flow.