Paralytic Ileus
Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Advanced Emergency & Gastrointestinal Care in Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
What Is Paralytic Ileus?
Paralytic ileus is a condition where the intestines stop moving temporarily, leading to functional bowel obstruction without any physical blockage.
Food, gas, and fluids fail to move forward, causing abdominal distension, pain, and vomiting.
It is commonly seen after surgery or during severe illness.
Common Causes of Paralytic Ileus
✔ Post-abdominal surgery (most common)
✔ Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium)
✔ Severe infections or sepsis
✔ Abdominal trauma
✔ Certain medications (painkillers, opioids)
✔ Spinal injury
✔ Severe medical illness
Symptoms of Paralytic Ileus
✔ Abdominal bloating and distension
✔ Abdominal discomfort or pain
✔ Nausea and vomiting
✔ Inability to pass stool or gas
✔ Reduced or absent bowel sounds
✔ Loss of appetite
Warning Signs – When to Seek Immediate Care
🚨 Persistent vomiting
🚨 Severe abdominal distension
🚨 Fever with abdominal pain
🚨 Rapid worsening of symptoms
🚨 Signs of dehydration
Who Is at Higher Risk?
✔ Patients after major abdominal surgery
✔ Elderly patients
✔ ICU patients
✔ Patients with electrolyte imbalance
✔ Patients on long-term pain medications
How Is Paralytic Ileus Diagnosed?
✔ Clinical examination
✔ Abdominal X-ray (dilated bowel loops)
✔ CT scan abdomen (to rule out obstruction)
✔ Blood tests (electrolytes, infection markers)
Treatment of Paralytic Ileus
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management
✔ Bowel rest (nil by mouth)
✔ IV fluids and electrolyte correction
✔ Nasogastric tube for decompression
✔ Early mobilization
✔ Adjustment of medications
Is Surgery Required?
🚫 Surgery is usually NOT required
Surgery is considered only if:
✔ Paralytic ileus persists unusually long
✔ Mechanical obstruction is suspected
✔ Complications develop
Recovery & Prognosis
✔ Most patients recover within a few days
✔ Bowel function returns gradually
✔ Early treatment prevents complications
Possible Complications If Untreated
✔ Severe abdominal distension
✔ Aspiration pneumonia
✔ Electrolyte imbalance
✔ Prolonged hospital stay
Can Paralytic Ileus Be Prevented?
✔ Early mobilization after surgery
✔ Adequate pain control (avoid excess opioids)
✔ Correct electrolytes early
✔ Proper postoperative care
Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bhanushali?
✔ Expertise in postoperative GI complications
✔ Accurate diagnosis to rule out obstruction
✔ Evidence-based management
✔ Comprehensive hospital care
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment
Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi,
Thane West – 400602,
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No. 4, Laxmi Krupa Building
Edulji Road, Charai,
Thane West – 400602,
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
