From the Research
No, you should not give a suppository if you suspect developing small bowel obstruction (SBO). Suppositories are contraindicated in cases of suspected bowel obstruction as they can worsen the condition and potentially lead to complications. If you or someone is showing signs of SBO such as abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating, and inability to pass gas or stool, this is a medical emergency requiring immediate professional evaluation. Instead of attempting home treatment, you should seek emergency medical care right away. Small bowel obstructions can lead to serious complications including tissue death, perforation, and peritonitis if not properly treated. The standard treatment for SBO typically involves hospitalization, bowel rest (nothing by mouth), intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube placement to decompress the stomach, and possibly surgery depending on the cause and severity. Attempting to treat this condition at home with suppositories could delay necessary medical intervention and potentially cause harm.
Key Points to Consider
- SBO is a common disease with multiple causes, and its management has evolved over the years 1.
- The most significant advances in SBO management involve decision-making techniques to promptly and accurately identify patients who will require exploration, and the increasing use of laparoscopic techniques 1.
- A systematic review of SBO highlights the importance of early diagnosis, aggressive medical therapy, and surgery for failed medical therapy 2.
- The use of nasogastric tube decompression is not always necessary and may be associated with increased risk of pneumonia and respiratory failure 3.
- A protocol for the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction using Gastroview (GV) has been shown to have diagnostic and therapeutic value and does not increase hospital length of stay, morbidity, or mortality 4.
Recommendations
- Seek emergency medical care immediately if symptoms of SBO are present.
- Do not attempt to treat SBO at home with suppositories or other methods.
- Follow the standard treatment for SBO, which includes hospitalization, bowel rest, intravenous fluids, and possibly surgery.
- Consider the use of laparoscopic techniques for the treatment of SBO, as they may reduce postoperative pain and minimize hospital stay 1.