Do Opiates Cause Obstructions In The Bowels?

Posted on Sat, 11 Mar 2017

Question: How can I know if opiates were the cause of my 3 large obstructions in my bowls resulting in perforation?

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
With the help of lab tests and endoscopy and/or erect X-ray

Detailed Answer:
Hello sir and welcome.

Thank you for writing to us.

I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help. The only way to differentiate narcotic bowel syndrome from other causes is with the help of an erect X-ray at the time of the obstructions or an endoscopy.

These two investigations will reveal the presence of any anatomical, physical or physiological obstruction. If none of these are present in an individual on narcotics, we can suspect narcotic bowel syndrome.

Also noteworthy is the presence of normal laboratory tests with narcotic bowel syndrome, whereas there will be some abnormalities noted with other causes of obstruction.

So you can speak with your treating doctor and go ahead with the required discussion to distinguish the two based on the investigations that were conducted when you had the 4 large bowel obstructions.

I hope you find my response helpful. Please feel free to write to me for any further clarifications, I am always here to help.

Best wishes.

Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana