What is chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction?
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, at the National Institutes of Health, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP) is a gastrointestinal motility disorder, or a disorder impacting the contraction of muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. This particular condition causes symptoms like those of a bowel obstruction or blockage. However, no obstruction is found when the intestines are examined. A miscommunication between muscles and nerves in the intestines causes the problem. Signs and Symptoms: *Cramps *Stomach pain *Nausea *Vomiting *Bloating *Fewer bowel movements than usual *Loose stools As seen in Gretchen’s case, over time pseudo-obstruction can cause bacterial infections, malnutrition and muscle problems in other parts of the body. In some cases, the cause of CIP is unknown, occurring at birth in some children. In others, a disease impacting muscles and nerves, such as Parkinson’s, or certain medications can lead to symptoms. This c
