Symptoms and Causes of Twisted Intestines: Volvulus and Other Conditions

The term 'twisted intestines' often brings to mind the condition known as volvulus, but it's important to recognize that other conditions can also cause similar symptoms. Intestinal obstruction, which is the blockage of food or fluids from passing through the digestive tract, can be caused by a variety of issues.

Understanding Intestinal Obstruction

An obstruction in the small intestine or large intestine colon can prevent food or fluids from flowing through. This blockage can be caused by a hernia, colon cancer, certain drugs, or strictures from inflamed intestines, such as those caused by Crohn's disease or diverticulitis. Adhesions, which are fibrous bands of tissue that grow in the abdomen after surgery, can also lead to an obstruction.

The Dangers of Intestinal Obstruction

If left untreated, obstructed sections of the intestines may die, leading to severe complications. However, intestinal blockage can often be effectively treated with prompt medical attention. Common symptoms include:

Severe cramping abdominal pain Loss of appetite Constipation Vomiting Inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas Abdominal swelling

Back to the Problem of Twisted Intestines

One of the first conditions that come to mind when discussing twisted intestines is volvulus, though it's not the only condition. Any situation where bowel organs twist or gyrate around their axis can be considered a twisted organ. This twisting can be caused by severe infections, parasites, tumors, increased colon size, Hirschsprung's disease, and post-surgical adhesions.

Volvulus: A Specific Case of Twisted Intestines

A volvulus specifically refers to a complete twist of the bowel around its axis, which is created by the mesentery tissue. The mesentery is a tissue located in the abdomen, attaching the intestines to the abdominal wall for stability. This condition is more common in the sigmoid colon, the last section of the large intestine.

Severity and Symptoms

The severity of the condition can vary, ranging from a simple obstruction (without interruption of blood flow) to a strangulated obstruction where blood flow is compromised. In the more severe case of a strangulated obstruction, if not treated immediately, necrosis or tissue death can occur, which can be fatal.

Even a simple obstruction requires immediate attention, although it's less of an emergency compared to a strangulated obstruction. Common symptoms include:

Severe abdominal pain Bloating Constipation Vomiting (possibly with green bile) Nausea Bloody stool Potential shock

Importantly, causes of intestinal obstruction can vary and are not always related to twisting. Conditions like intussusception, where one section of the intestine telescopes into another, or paralytic or adynamic obstructions caused by muscular impairment or nerve issues, can also lead to blockages.

Conclusion

Any form of gastric, intestinal, or colonic obstruction requires serious concern and should justify immediate emergency surgical approaches. The pain can be excruciating in advanced cases, and symptoms will worsen over a very short period of time. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to prevent severe complications and save life.

What You Should Do if You Suspect Intestinal Obstruction

If you or someone you know experiences severe abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and other symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and potentially save lives.

Keywords: twisted intestines, volvulus, intestinal obstruction