Ileus

What is mean by Ileus?

Ileus is a condition in which there is due to inhibition of the gastrointestinal peristalsis or propulsion without any evidence of mechanical obstruction.

 In any case, first mechanical obstruction is ruled out with the help  radiological evidence like CT scan or small bowel series

Our intestines span a length of around 28 feet. This implies that the food we at must go a long way before it is entirely digested and eliminated.

Our intestines accomplish this process by contracting the muscles in waves. These muscle contractions, referred to as peristalsis, transport your digested food forward.

A significant traffic jam in our intestines could develop if something, such as muscle or nerve issues, slows or prevents this motion.

Ileus is the medical word for this immobility in the intestines that causes food stuff to pile up and may become blocked.

An intestinal blockage may result from an ileus. This indicates that food particles, gas, or liquids cannot pass.

Common causes

After surgery, people frequently take medications that might impede intestinal movement, which increases the risk of developing an ileus. This kind of ileus is paralytic.

The gut is not clogged in this case. It's more like it's not moving right. As a result, there is little to no digestion-related movement within your intestines.

1. Abdominal surgery
   
2. Urosurgery
3. Opioid use
4. Peritonitis
5. Electrolyte disturbances(potassium, calcium)
6. Sepsis

How is an Ileus treated?

Depending on how severe it is, an ileus may require treatment. Whether it's creating a paralytic ileus or a partial or whole intestinal obstruction will determine how severe the condition is.

1. Bowel rest

     Bowl rest involves giving your digestive system a break from any food mouth

     

      2. Nasogastric decompression

    Nasogastric tubes are typically used for decompression of the stomach in the            intenstinal obstruction or illness.

      3 .IV fluids

    IV fluids are specially formulated liquids that are injected into a vein to prevent          or treat  dehydration

What are the Symptoms of an Ileus?

An ileus can cause extreme Abdominal Pain

• abdominal cramping
• appetite loss
• feeling of fullness
• constipation
• inability to pass gas
• abdominal swelling
• nausea
• vomiting, especially with stool-like contents

 Risk factors for ileus:

An ileus is more likely if you’ve recently had abdominal surgery.

 medical conditions can increase your risk of ileus.

• history of intestinal injury or trauma
• history of intestinal disorder, such as Crohn’s disease and diverticulitis
• history of exposure to high-energy radiation (irradiation) near the abdomen
• rapid weight loss