The doctor will try to determine how much pain the patient is experiencing, if he or she has been vomiting, and whether there is any movement of gas or stool in the bowel. Medical treatment is necessary to prevent fluid and blood chemistry imbalances and shock. Surgery may also be needed, but may not always be possible. Medications may be given through the NG tube. Nutrition may also be given through the NG tube, if tolerated, or by an intravenous infusion.
Bowel obstructions are often extremely painful and usually require medication for pain relief.
Other methods for relieving pain such as distraction, relaxation, and imagery can also be used. A patient who requires surgery for the obstruction will usually need an NG tube after surgery until the bowel has recovered and is able to function. Please consult the PDQ Index . This document is also available in a text-only format . The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease.