Triad: Abdominal pain, distention, constipation
Vomiting only occurs late as obstruction is rather distal. If so, may be feculent in nature and indicates long-standing obstruction.
Vary from subtle to dramatic presentations
Physical Exam:
Distended, tympanitic abdomen (mostly upper abdomen and unilateral)
Severe abdominal tenderness, peritonitis, fever, shock highly suggestive for gangrenous bowel
Distended, tympanitic abdomen (mostly upper abdomen and unilateral)
Severe abdominal tenderness, peritonitis, fever, shock highly suggestive for gangrenous bowel
Abdominal and/or chest pain
Retching, vomiting
Inability to pass NGT
Volvulus
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Rectal foreign body
Aortocaval fistula
Anal fissure
Acute gastroenteritis
Fecal impaction
Aortoenteric fisulta