Colostomy Blockage Symptoms Jun 2026

A colostomy blockage (also called a bowel obstruction) occurs when stool becomes too thick or a partial blockage prevents waste from passing through the stoma. Recognizing the early warning signs is critical to avoid a complete blockage, which can lead to a ruptured bowel or sepsis.

To reduce the risk of a colostomy blockage: colostomy blockage symptoms

⏱ If no improvement in 2–4 hours, call your stoma nurse or doctor. A colostomy blockage (also called a bowel obstruction)

These are observable changes at the stoma site: These are observable changes at the stoma site:

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the abdomen to divert the flow of stool from the intestines to a bag outside the body. While a colostomy can be a lifesaving procedure, it's not without its complications. One of the most common and distressing complications is a colostomy blockage. In this article, we'll explore the symptoms of a colostomy blockage, what causes them, and what you can do to prevent and treat them.

In some cases, a colostomy blockage may present with less common symptoms, including:

Disclaimer: This paper is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of a colostomy blockage, please contact a healthcare professional immediately.