PCCN Ischemic Bowel

PCCN Ischemic Bowel Disease

Ischemic bowel disease results from inadequate flow of oxygenated blood to the intestines. The extent of ischemic bowel disease can range from mild to severe based on the amount of damage from lack of oxygenated blood. This is a potentially serious condition and immediate medical care. The sooner ischemic bowel disease is treated, the more favorable the outcome.

Signs and Symptoms

Ischemic bowel disease may cause:

• Cramping and abdominal pain
• Bloody stools
• Frequent urge to defecate
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal distension

Causes

Ischemic bowel disease occurs when an artery that supplies blood becomes blocked or narrowed. There are several possible causes of ischemic bowel disease, including:

• Blockage in the arteries due to a tumor or blood clot
• Narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the bowel from atherosclerosis
• Obstruction in the colon
• Low blood pressure
• Certain medications such as diuretics, chemotherapy drugs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Risk Factors

Ischemic bowel disease is more common in older adults. Other factors that may increase your chances of developing ischemic bowel disease include:

• Shock induced by conditions such as blood stream infection and blood loss
• Recent heart attack
• Sustained heart arrhythmias
• Heart failure
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
• Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) or other vascular surgeries
• Colon cancer
• Certain medications that cause arteries to narrow
• Diabetes
• Hemodialysis
• Sickle cell disease
• Dehydration
• Pregnancy

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the severity of the ischemia and include the following:

• Supportive Care
• Antibiotics
• Surgery