Bowel obstruction is a blockage in either the small intestine or large intestine (colon). The part of the intestine above the obstruction works normally, but the blocked area swells as food, fluids, gas, and stool build up. This causes symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, bloating, and the inability to pass gas.

The onset of symptoms varies depending on the type of obstruction. Some may start with mild discomfort that worsens over time, while others experience severe symptoms suddenly. If left untreated, bowel obstruction can lead to serious conditions, such as intestinal perforation, bowel necrosis (tissue death), and life-threatening infection. Recognizing the symptoms early can help prevent complications and improve recovery chances.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of bowel obstruction may vary in intensity and duration based on the obstruction type and location. However, all types typically share common symptoms, such as:

  • Abdominal pain: Often sharp, stabbing pains or intense cramping.

  • Bloating: Due to the buildup of gas, fluids, food, and stool in the blocked section of the intestine.

  • Changes in bowel habits: Symptoms can include constipation, diarrhea, or both.

Small Intestine Obstruction Symptoms

When the small intestine is obstructed, it affects the movement of food and gastric juices. This causes symptoms like:

  • Crampy abdominal pain that may radiate from the upper to the mid-abdominal region

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Restlessness

  • Dehydration

  • Rapid heart rate

  • Loud gurgling sounds in your abdomen

  • Diarrhea

Large Intestine Obstruction Symptoms

A blockage in the large intestine can cause the following symptoms:

  • Severe lower abdominal pain

  • Fever

  • Pressure or heaviness in the lower abdomen

  • Inability to pass stool or gas

  • Bloating or abdominal distention

  • Loud, high-pitched abdominal sounds

Partial vs. Complete Bowel Obstruction Symptoms

The symptoms of partial and complete bowel obstruction are similar, but they differ in their development and severity.

Partial Bowel Obstruction Symptoms

Symptoms of a partial obstruction may come and go for days or weeks and worsen over time. These may include:

  • Diarrhea

  • Excessive flatulence

  • Colicky abdominal pain (severe, intermittent cramping)

Complete Bowel Obstruction Symptoms

Complete bowel obstruction is a medical emergency and requires immediate care. Symptoms of a complete obstruction include:

  • Severe, sudden abdominal pain

  • Inability to pass gas or stool

  • Loss of appetite

Symptoms in Children

While more common in adults, bowel obstruction can also affect infants and children. For young children, bowel obstruction often results from a condition called intussusception, where one part of the intestine slides into another, restricting food and fluid flow. Symptoms in children include:

  • Sudden, loud crying due to abdominal pain

  • Drawing knees up to the chest to relieve pain

  • Distended abdomen

  • Green vomiting from bile

  • Changes in bowel movements like diarrhea or constipation

  • Signs of shock, such as pale, clammy skin

  • Loss of appetite

  • Irritability

As the condition progresses, later symptoms may include:

  • Mucus or blood in the stool, known as "jelly stool"

  • Rectal bleeding

  • Lethargy

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

It can be difficult to determine if your symptoms are due to bowel obstruction or another gastrointestinal issue. Contact a healthcare provider if you or someone you know experiences:

  • Persistent abdominal pain

  • Bloating

  • Vomiting

  • Changes in bowel habits

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Unrelenting vomiting

  • Abdominal distension

  • Inability to pass gas or stool

  • Signs of dehydration

These symptoms may indicate a complete bowel obstruction or other serious complications that require emergency medical care.

A Quick Review

Bowel obstruction occurs when the flow of digestive contents in the small or large intestine is blocked. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. Symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the location and severity of the obstruction.

If you experience symptoms of bowel obstruction, see a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and promote a full recovery.