Obstruction
Obstruction of the intestine means blockage of the bowel. Complete obstruction producing absolute constipation involves blockage of the passage of both faeces and flatus. It can be acute, as may occur when a hernia becomes stuck or the bowel twists on itself, or of more gradual onset as a complication, for example, of Crohn’s disease or cancer. There is increasing abdominal pain and eventually vomiting. While some symptomatic relief may be achieved by resting the bowel, surgery may be required.
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