From the Guidelines
Small intestine hypomotility typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal distension, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and early satiety, as well as abdominal pain, decreased or absent bowel sounds, and weight loss due to malabsorption, as noted in patients with chronic small intestinal dysmotility 1. The diagnosis of small intestine hypomotility can be challenging, as the symptoms overlap with other functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and cyclical vomiting 1. Some key signs of small intestine hypomotility include:
- Abdominal distension and bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased or absent bowel sounds
- Weight loss due to malabsorption
- Electrolyte imbalances and nutritional deficiencies
- Dilated loops of small bowel with air-fluid levels on X-rays or CT scans The management of small intestine hypomotility involves treating the underlying cause, optimizing nutrition, correcting electrolyte imbalances, and sometimes using prokinetic medications, such as prucalopride or erythromycin, which have been shown to be effective in improving symptoms and motility 1. It is essential to approach the diagnosis and management of small intestine hypomotility with caution, as the condition can be complex and multifactorial, and treatment should be individualized to address the specific needs and symptoms of each patient 1.
From the Research
Signs of Small Intestine Hypomotility
The signs of small intestine hypomotility can be diverse and non-specific, making diagnosis challenging. Some common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Malnutrition due to impaired nutrient absorption
Associated Conditions
Small intestine hypomotility can be associated with various conditions, such as:
- Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) 2
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) 3
- Neurological disorders, including enteric neuropathy and myopathy 4
- Generalized muscle disorders
Diagnostic Challenges
Diagnosing small intestine hypomotility can be difficult due to the non-specific nature of the symptoms. Extensive and stepwise diagnostic procedures may be required to exclude intestinal obstruction, search for complications, and quantify the extent and severity of the motility disorder 2.
Clinical Presentations
Clinical presentations of small intestine hypomotility can vary, but may include:
- Uncoordinated high-pressure contractions and interdigestive motor complexes in the duodenum and small intestine 5
- Tachygastria and tachyarrhythmia in gastric myoelectric activity recordings 5
- Abdominal symptoms, such as pain, nausea, and vomiting, which can impact quality of life and nutritional status 4