Ischemic Bowel Disease

Overview

Ischemic bowel disease is ischemic injury to the intestinal wall caused by inadequate blood supply or impaired venous return. It is common in the elderly and patients with atherosclerosis, presenting with abdominal pain and bloody stool, and severe cases can cause bowel necrosis and perforation.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in stool
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal bloating

Treatment

Withhold food, provide fluids, and improve intestinal blood supply; mild cases usually recover, while bowel necrosis or perforation requires emergency surgery.

Dietary advice

During recovery eat a bland, easily digestible diet in small frequent meals, avoiding greasy and irritating foods.