Intestine, knotted

Christopher Hobbs:

“Knotted intestines, or intussusception, is a condition where the intestines telescope or collapse into themselves. This is often accompanied by a feeling of crampy, intermittent pain. If the blood supply to the intestine is blocked, the tissue may die, resulting in infection and gangrene. Consult a health care professional.”

Etiologic Factors:

1. Anatomical abnormalities: Some people are born with unusual twists in their intestines (congenital malrotation), which predispose them to volvulus.
2. Chronic constipation: Severe constipation can increase the risk of intestinal obstruction and twisting.
3. Abdominal adhesions: Scar tissue from previous surgeries or infections can cause parts of the intestines to twist.
4. Intestinal tumors: Masses or growths within the intestines can alter its normal movement and lead to twisting.
5. Intestinal dysmotility: Conditions affecting the muscular movements of the intestines, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can contribute to volvulus.

Symptoms to Watch Out for:

1. Severe abdominal pain: Sudden, intense cramping or sharp pain that comes and goes.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Often with bile-like or fecal-smelling vomit.
3. Abdominal distention: A swollen, bloated belly that’s tender to the touch.
4. Changes in bowel movements: Inability to pass gas or stools, or the absence of bowel movements altogether.
5. Fever: In severe cases, infection or bowel necrosis can lead to fever.

When to Seek Professional Help:

• If you experience any of the symptoms above, especially severe or persistent pain, vomiting, or bloating, seek medical help immediately. Volvulus can lead to intestinal necrosis, a life-threatening condition where the affected part of the intestine dies.
• Severe dehydration from vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, or signs of shock (e.g., rapid heart rate, low blood pressure) also require urgent attention.