Suspected intestinal obstruction requires immediate Small bowel obstruction. Auscultation may reveal high-pitched rushes or tinkles that coincide with episodes of cramping. Pain usually is Proximal obstruction. Frequent non-bilious vomiting is prominent if the obstruction is proximal to the ampulla of Vater. Obstipation may not occur until later, and Distal obstruction.
Vomiting is bilious and less frequent.
The vomiting may be feculent if the obstruction has been long-standing. Colicky pain occurs at intervals of 10 minutes or more, and it is less intense. A dull ache may persist between cramps. Colic is perceived in the lower abdomen or suprapubically, and obstipation and distention are characteristic. Nausea is common, and vomiting may occur.