Living with Colonic pseudo-obstruction
A condition where the large intestine acts blocked and widens even though nothing is physically blocking it.
Understanding Colonic pseudo-obstruction
The colon becomes very enlarged (megacolon) without an obvious colon disease or physical blockage. When it comes on suddenly alongside another medical condition, such as trauma, surgery, serious illness or a medication, it is called Ogilvie's syndrome.
Signs & symptoms
GARD doesn't list specific symptoms for this condition yet.
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
- 4Connect with expert centers
Association of Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders may keep lists of experts for this condition.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Expert lists: Association of Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Association of Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause, other than that sudden cases occur alongside trauma, surgery, serious injury or illness, or medication.
Also known as: primary chronic pseudo-obstruction of colon; pseudo-obstruction of colon
Patient organizations
- Association of Gastrointestinal Motility DisordersColonic pseudo-obstruction · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Colonic pseudo-obstruction.
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