Abdominal Pain, Adhesions from Surgery

Symptoms

In many cases, abdominal adhesions do not cause any symptoms. When present, the symptoms may include:

• Chronic (long-term) belly pain

• Constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Bloating

• Inability to pass gas or stool

Adhesions are more common in people who have had 1 or more abdominal surgeries. Diagnosis is made using blood tests, X-ray, CT scan, rectal exam, and (in women) pelvic exam. Abdominal adhesions are lifelong (permanent). They can be treated by surgery to remove the scar tissue. But this treatment may create more scar tissue. And the problem may come back.

Pelvic adhesions can cause female infertility.

Home care

• Rest as needed, until feeling better.

• Eat a diet low in fiber (called a low-residue diet). Foods allowed include refined breads, white rice, fruit and vegetable juices without pulp, and, tender meats. These foods will pass more easily through the intestine.

• Don't eat whole-grain foods, whole fruits or vegetables, tough meats, seeds, or nuts until your symptoms go away.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised. 

If X-rays were done, they'll be read by a radiologist. You'll be told if there are any changes.

Call 911

Call  911 if any of the following occur:

• Trouble breathing

• Chest pain

• Confusion

• Very drowsy or having trouble waking up

• Fainting, dizziness, or loss of consciousness

• Fast "racing" heart rate

When to get medical advice

Call your healthcare provider or get medical care right away if any of these occur:

• Pain that lasts, gets worse, or moves to the right lower belly

• Vomiting or diarrhea that is new or gets worse

• Belly swelling

• Unable to pass stool for more than 3 days or feeling constipated with belly pain or swelling (even if it has been less than 3 days since you've passed stool)

• New fever over 100.4ºF (38ºC), or rising fever

• Blood in vomit or bowel movements (dark red or black color)

• Unexpected vaginal bleeding or missed period