Short Bowel Syndrome
Overview
Causes
Short bowel syndrome occurs when half or more of the small intestine is removed. It reduces the absorption of vitamins and minerals from food.
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Symptoms of short bowel syndrome may include:
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Heartburn
- Malnourishment
- Poor growth
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Weight loss
- Food sensitivities
Treatments
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Nutrition
If you are malnourished, your doctor may give you food, fluid, and electrolytes through an IV. You will be advised to gradually increase your caloric intake and avoid certain foods. Initially, your diet will be high-protein, low-fat, and lactose-free.
Medications
In addition to changing your diet, you may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements. Antidiarrheal medications and medications that slow the contraction and relaxation of the intestinal muscles can also slow your digestion so you can absorb more nutrients. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe an H2 blocker, a proton pump inhibitor, cholestyramine, and/or octreotide.
Surgery
Transplantation of small bowel is an option for those who cannot maintain their nutritional status with other treatments.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
Copyright © EBSCO Information Services
All rights reserved.