Search
Close this search box.

Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP) is a rare condition with symptoms like those caused by a bowel obstruction, or blockage. But when the intestines are examined, no blockage is found.

Instead, the symptoms are due to nerve (visceral neuropathy) or muscle (visceral myopathy) problems that affect the movement of food, fluid, and air through the intestines. The intestines, or bowel, include the small intestine and the large intestine, also called the colon.Intestinal pseudo-obstruction

CIP can occur in people of any age, but it occurs more often in children and older adults. Children can have a long-lasting form of the condition called chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP). CIP in children is usually present at birth.

Learn more about CIP in children

In another form of intestinal pseudo-obstruction that mostly affects older adults, the colon becomes enlarged after surgery or illness. This condition is known as acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO), also called Ogilvie syndrome or acute colonic ileus. ACPO can lead to serious complications and can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction

Symptoms may include cramps, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and constipation.

Occasionally, intestinal pseudo-obstruction may cause diarrhea.

Over time, the condition can cause bacterial infections, malnutrition, weight loss, and muscle problems in other parts of the body.

Some people develop problems with their esophagus, stomach, or bladder.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of CIP and may involve:

  • nutritional support
  • medications
  • surgery, or
  • other procedures

Need help finding a Dietitian? Visit out Dietitian listing to get the nutritional support you need

Learn more about intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Share this page
Topics of this article
Read More
Was this article helpful?

IFFGD is a nonprofit education and research organization. Our mission is to inform, assist, and support people affected by gastrointestinal disorders.

Our original content is authored specifically for IFFGD readers, in response to your questions and concerns.

If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting IFFGD with a small tax-deductible donation.

Related Information
Syndromic Testing

What is Syndromic Testing? A symptom is a part of a disease that presents in the patient (example: diarrhea), while a sign is a part

Read More »
Treatments for GI Infections

Microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can cause gastrointestinal (GI) infections, sometimes known as stomach bugs. These infections can cause symptoms like fever, nausea,

Read More »
Personal Stories
Syndromic Testing

What is Syndromic Testing? A symptom is a part of a disease that presents in the patient (example: diarrhea), while a sign is a part

Read More »
Treatments for GI Infections

Microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can cause gastrointestinal (GI) infections, sometimes known as stomach bugs. These infections can cause symptoms like fever, nausea,

Read More »
Skip to content