Patients who have had abdominal surgery or radiation are at a higher risk of developing bowel obstruction. Bowel obstructions are most common during advanced stages of cancer. To determine the presence of a bowel obstruction the doctor will perform an examination. The examination may include blood tests, urine tests, abdominal x-rays, or a barium enema. 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.