ABSTRACT
This chapter considers all the patient's symptoms and all the information available to doctors and assesses the symptoms, signs and information given using this to choose the appropriate remedies for the problem, and offers extra information where available and appropriate. Bowel obstruction occurs most commonly in association with colorectal and ovarian tumours, but can occur in any patient with an abdominal or pelvic cancer. There is rarely a useful long-term solution to the problem of a bowel obstruction. It is distressing and, as a single measure, it only works in about 20% of patients. If vomiting is not subsiding in response to medical treatment, it might be worth considering. Patients with an obstruction low in the bowel might be able to continue to drink and even to eat small amounts. Sufficient fluid will be absorbed to prevent complete dehydration. It is important to explain this to the patient and their relatives.
