Do Intestines Move on Their Own?

Intestines move on their own in a process called peristalsis, which is a movement that helps push food contents forward in the gastrointestinal tract.

• In the gastrointestinal tract a movement called peristalsis helps propel contents forward. It is an involuntary contraction and relaxation of muscles throughout the digestive tract, beginning in the throat and ending in the anus. 
• When the intestines fail to move on their own because the nerves in the intestinal wall are not functioning properly, and there is no physical obstruction in the intestine, it is called paralytic ileus. This paralysis allows fluid and gas to collect in the intestine. Paralytic ileus mostly involves the small intestine, but the colon and stomach may also be affected. 

Symptoms of paralytic ileus include: 

• Abdominal distension/bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Decreased bowel sounds
• Severe constipation (inability to pass stool or gas)
• Feeling full
• Loss of appetite 

Paralytic ileus may be caused by: 

• Abdominal surgical procedures
• Infection
  • Peritonitis
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Pancreatitis
  • Appendicitis
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Use of medications such as opioids and sedatives
• Retroperitoneal trauma and bleeding
• Spine or rib fractures
• Severe trauma outside the abdomen
• The application of a plaster jacket

Paralytic ileus is diagnosed with a patient history and physical examination of the abdominal area. 

Tests used to help diagnose paralytic ileus, intestinal blockage, or other intestinal abnormalities may include: 

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Ultrasound
• Abdominal X-ray 
• Air or barium enema

Treatment for paralytic ileus depends on the cause and severity. The condition is mostly self-limiting and often goes away on its own or with some conservative measures. 

Conservative treatments for paralytic ileus may include: 

• Diet modifications
  • Correcting fluid or electrolyte deficiencies
  • People who have conditions such as Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis may need to follow a low-fiber diet 
• Adjusting medications
  • Stop using certain medications or change the dose or regimen of a drug that may be causing the problem
  • Never stop taking a prescribed medication without first talking to your doctor
• Medical treatment for paralytic ileus may include: 
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration
• Nasogastric tube 
• Medications that help stimulate peristalsis (prokinetics) 
• Medications for pain
• Surgery
  • Stenting the intestines to allow passage of bowel matter
  • Repair or removal of the damaged portion of the intestine
  • Removal of the entire intestine, which also includes an ostomy, a pouch to collect stool