Increased bowel sounds overview
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Increased Bowel Sounds Microchapters |
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Differentiating Increased Bowel Sounds from other Conditions |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Increased bowel sounds overview On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Increased (hyperactive) bowel sounds can sometimes be heard even without a stethoscope. Hyperactive bowel sounds means that there is an increase in intestinal activity. This can sometimes occur with diarrhea and after eating. Very high-pitched bowel sounds may be a sign of early bowel obstruction.
Causes
Most of the sounds heard in the stomach and intestines are due to normal digestion and are no need for concern. Many conditions can cause hyperactive or hypoactive bowel sounds. Most are harmless and do not need to be treated.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Complete history is critical in evaluation of the patient with increased bowel sounds.
X Ray
X-rays (flat and upright) are useful in evaluating the cause of increased bowel sounds.
CT
Etiology is demonstrated best by abdominal CT scan.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Enteroclysis helps to determine the degree of obstruction.
Treatment
Surgery
Complete bowel obstruction usually requires surgical intervention.