A bowel obstruction is a blockage in the intestines that prevents gas, fluids, or food from moving through the intestines normally. Many different problems can cause a bowel obstruction. Some examples are scar tissue from past surgeries (adhesions), certain types of hernias, cancer, twisting of the intestines (volvulus), or diverticulitis.

Symptoms of a bowel obstruction include:

• Cramping abdominal (belly) pain. The pain may affect all or part of the belly area and may be severe.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• An inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas.
• Bloating.

A suspected bowel obstruction needs to be evaluated by a doctor. It may require medical or surgical treatment.