ileus

Ileus: A Temporary Condition Affecting Intestinal Movement

Ileus is a temporary condition where the intestine's ability to push food and waste out of the body is impaired. This can lead to a buildup and blockage in the digestive tract.

• Causes: Ileus can be caused by mechanical factors, such as something blocking the bowel [2], or it can occur due to an interruption in intestinal movement [4].
• Symptoms: The condition often presents with painful symptoms, including abdominal pain and distention [6]. In some cases, ileus can lead to a bowel obstruction [5].
• Duration: Ileus is typically a temporary condition, but if it persists for more than 3 days following surgery, it is termed postoperative adynamic ileus or paralytic ileus [7].

Characteristics of Ileus

Ileus is characterized by the slowing down of gastrointestinal (GI) motility accompanied by distention in the absence of a mechanical intestinal obstruction [8]. The condition can occur due to various factors, including abdominal surgery, which can lead to a temporary arrest of intestinal peristalsis [6].

Definition and Terminology

Ileus is also referred to as a blockage of the bowel (intestines) that happens when the intestines don't work as they should. The muscles in the intestines normally contract and relax to move food through the digestive system, but in ileus, this process is impaired [9].

Medical Definition

Ileus is defined as a noun, referring to a blockage of the intestine (especially the ileum) that prevents the contents of the intestine from passing to the lower bowel [10].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Ileus

Ileus, also known as bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage, can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Abdominal cramping: A feeling of intense pain in the abdominal area that comes and goes [3].
• Loss of appetite: A decrease in hunger due to discomfort or nausea [3].
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stool or gas, leading to a feeling of fullness or bloating [2][4].
• Vomiting: Regurgitation of food or water due to stomach upset [5].
• Inability to pass gas: A buildup of gas in the digestive system, causing discomfort and bloating [1][4].
• Abdominal swelling: A visible increase in abdominal size due to gas or fluid accumulation [2][7].
• Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or dizziness, often accompanied by vomiting [5][7].

It's essential to seek medical attention if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, as ileus can lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

References: [1] - Context result 1 [2] - Context result 2 [3] - Context result 3 [4] - Context result 4 [5] - Context result 5 [7] - Context result 7

Diagnostic Tests for Ileus

Ileus, also known as intestinal obstruction, can be diagnosed through various tests and procedures. Here are some of the key diagnostic factors and tests used to diagnose ileus:

• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are often present in patients with ileus [2].
• Abdominal distention: The abdomen may become swollen or bloated due to the accumulation of gas and fluid in the intestines [2].
• No features of mechanical obstruction or peritoneal inflammation: Unlike intestinal obstruction, ileus does not typically show signs of mechanical blockage or inflammation in the abdominal cavity [2].

Diagnostic Tests

The following tests may be used to diagnose ileus:

• Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound imaging, or barium enema may also be used to diagnose the ileus [1].
• Physical exam: A physical examination by a doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms [4].
• Abdominal radiographs: Abdominal radiographs show gaseous distension of the bowel, which is a characteristic feature of ileus [5].

Additional Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, additional diagnostic tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis of ileus. These include:

• Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify inflammatory markers such as interleukins 1 and 6 (IL-1, IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a), which could indicate early presence of inflammation [8].
• Colonoscopy: In rare cases of large-bowel ileus, colonoscopy may be used to visualize the inside of the colon and rule out other conditions [6].

References

[1] Dec 3, 2020 — Imaging tests such as an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound imaging, or barium enema may also be used to diagnose the ileus. Treatment ...

[2] Oct 11, 2023 — Key diagnostic factors · nausea and vomiting · abdominal distention · no features of mechanical obstruction or peritoneal inflammation (e.g., ...

[3] Dec 4, 2023 — Ileus Diagnosis​​ To diagnose ileus, your doctor will take your medical history, including your most recent symptoms. This will be followed by a ...

[4] Tests and procedures used to diagnose intestinal obstruction include: Physical exam. Your doctor will ask about your medical history and your symptoms.

[5] Diagnosis of Ileus ... The most essential task is to distinguish ileus from intestinal obstruction. In both conditions, abdominal radiographs show gaseous ...

[6] by TO Vilz · 2017 · Cited by 116 — Abdominal CT is the gold standard for the diagnostic evaluation of mechanical ileus. Further diagnostic tests. In rare cases of large-bowel ileus, colonoscopy ...

[7] An ileus is when the movement of your intestines is interrupted. This can lead to intestinal obstruction. Learn more about symptoms, causes, and treatment.

[8] Nov 1, 2021 — Inflammatory markers such as interleukins 1 and 6 (IL-1, IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a) could help identify early the presence of ...

[9] May 14, 2024 — Ileus, a condition in which the bowel does not work correctly, but there is no structural problem causing the obstruction. Paralytic ileus, also ...

Treatment Options for Ileus

Ileus, also known as postoperative ileus (POI), is a temporary halt in the normal contractions of the bowel muscles after surgery. While it's not a disease itself, it can cause discomfort and complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to manage ileus.

Medications

Several medications have been investigated for their potential to treat ileus:

• Peripherally selective opioid antagonists: These agents, such as methylnaltrexone (Relistor) and alvimopan, can help alleviate symptoms of ileus by blocking the effects of opioids on the bowel. [3]
• Metoclopramide: This medication has been used to reduce the duration of POI by stimulating gut motility. However, its use is not without risks, as it can cause side effects such as nausea and dizziness. [4][5]
• Neostigmine: As a reversible inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, neostigmine has been investigated for its potential to treat POI by stimulating gut motility. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy. [8]

Other Treatment Options

In addition to medications, other treatment options are available to manage ileus:

• Continuous nasogastric suction: This involves using a tube to remove stomach contents and help stimulate bowel movements.
• Nothing by mouth (NPO): In some cases, patients may be advised to avoid eating or drinking until the ileus resolves on its own.
• IV fluids and electrolytes: Administering IV fluids and electrolytes can help maintain hydration and prevent dehydration.

Important Considerations

It's essential to note that treatment for ileus should always be directed by a healthcare professional, as they can assess the underlying cause of the condition and provide personalized guidance. Additionally, medications should only be used under medical supervision, as they can have side effects and interact with other medications.

Sources:

• [1] Dec 17, 2010 — An effective bowel regimen should include a stimulant laxative and a stool softener.
• [2] by F Zeinali · 2009 · Cited by 113 — Several strategies may be used to reduce the clinical consequences of ileus...
• [3] Nov 1, 2021 — Peripherally selective opioid antagonists are an option for the treatment of postoperative ileus.
• [4] by TJ Bungard · 1999 · Cited by 94 — Metoclopramide, cisapride, and erythromycin are commonly administered to reduce the duration of POI.
• [5] One medication they may prescribe is metoclopramide (Reglan).
• [6] Treatment of ileus involves continuous nasogastric suction, nothing by mouth, IV fluids and electrolytes...
• [7] by N Bugaev · 2019 · Cited by 23 — The management of ileus is directed toward correction of the underlying cause...
• [8] by A Luckey · 2003 · Cited by 716 — Neostigmine is a reversible inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and as such has been investigated...

Differential Diagnoses for Ileus

Ileus, also known as bowel obstruction or pseudo-obstruction, can be caused by various factors. The differential diagnoses for ileus include:

• Pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie syndrome): This is a condition where the muscles in the intestine do not function properly, leading to a buildup of gas and liquids in the digestive tract [1].
• Mechanical bowel obstruction: This occurs when there is an actual physical blockage in the intestines, which can be caused by various factors such as adhesions, hernias, or tumors [2].

Other differential diagnoses for ileus may include:

• Intestinal obstruction: This can be caused by a variety of factors such as intussusception, volvulus, or foreign bodies in the intestine [3].
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause ileus due to inflammation and scarring in the intestines [4].

Clinical Features

The clinical features of ileus may include:

• Abdominal bloating and pain caused by a buildup of gas and liquids
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe constipation or obstipation (inability to pass stool)
• Loss of appetite
• Absence of bowel sounds

These symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the ileus [5].

Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for ileus involves a thorough review of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as abdominal X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms [6].

References:

[1] Context 1 [2] Context 1 [3] Context 7 [4] Not provided in context [5] Context 4 and Context 5 [6] Context 2