Intestinal Obstruction - Bowel Obstruction

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Usually, nothing can be done to prevent a bowel obstruction. A person who has had an obstruction from hard stools may be given stool softeners to prevent a repeat obstruction.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

The bowel may develop a tear, called an intestinal perforation, or have its blood supply cut off. A lack of blood supply to the bowel can cause the tissue to die. A condition know as gangrene may develop as a result. These are both serious complications that may result in severe infections and death.

What are the risks to others?

A bowel obstruction is not contagious, and poses no risks to others.