Key notes on symptom control issues in Palliative Care

Common Signs and Symptoms of intestinal obstruction

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  Large volume vomits often with little or no preceding nausea. May vary in frequency.
  

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  Abdominal colic, which often varies in frequency and intensity.
  

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  Abdominal distension which may be absent
  

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  Constipation or reduced number of bowel movements.
  

In many cases there are multiple levels of obstruction, which means patients may not present with all the classic symptoms. It should be considered in any patient with advanced malignancy who is vomiting.