Obstructed

Obstructed is a term often used in various fields such as medicine, engineering, and physics to describe a situation where a pathway or flow is blocked or hindered. This article will primarily focus on the medical context of obstruction.

Medical Context

In medicine, an obstruction refers to the blockage of a blood vessel, organ, or tissue that prevents the normal flow of bodily fluids, such as blood, urine, or bile. Obstructions can occur in various parts of the body and can lead to serious health complications if not treated promptly.

Types of Obstructions

There are several types of obstructions that can occur in the human body, including:

• Pulmonary embolism: This is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from the legs or, rarely, other parts of the body.

• Bowel obstruction: This occurs when the small or large intestine is blocked, preventing or slowing down the movement of food or stool. It can be caused by various conditions such as Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, or cancer.

• Urinary obstruction: This is a blockage that inhibits the flow of urine out of the body. It can be caused by a number of conditions, including kidney stones, prostate enlargement, and certain types of cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an obstruction can vary greatly depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Common symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty passing fluids. In severe cases, obstructions can lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis or organ failure.

Treatment

Treatment for obstructions depends on the cause and location of the blockage. It may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or in severe cases, surgery. It is important to seek medical attention if an obstruction is suspected.

See Also

• Blood clot
• Embolism
• Thrombosis