Blockage of the small intestine or large intestine , resulting from either lack of peristalsis or mechanical obstruction (e.g., by narrowing, foreign objects, or hernia ).
Obstruction near the start of the small intestine often causes vomiting . Near the end or in the large intestine, backed-up waste and swallowed air cause intestinal distention; the resulting pressure may cause necrosis (death of intestinal wall tissue). Waste products may escape into the bloodstream. Symptoms and treatment depend on the obstruction's nature and location.