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Ileus (intestines stop moving)

Also called: Ileus, paralytic ileus, postoperative ileus, intestinal pseudo-obstruction

The intestines stop squeezing food along, even though nothing is blocking them. It's common for a few days after belly surgery and causes bloating, nausea, and no gas or stool.

Common afterBelly surgery
Other causesOpioids, low potassium, infection
Usually clearsIn 2 to 4 days

Overview

Opioid pain medicines slow the bowel a lot.

A true blockage can look similar, so doctors check with X-rays or CT.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Bloating with no gas or stool

Less common

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Belly cramps
  • Swollen belly

Look up a symptom: Bloating or gas · Constipation · Vomiting

When to get medical care

Call 911Severe belly pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or a hard, swollen belly: call 911.
Get care todayNo gas or stool for a few days with bloating, especially after surgery.
See a doctor soonBloating that lasts.

Causes

Surgery, opioids, low potassium, infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • After surgery
  • Opioid use

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Doctors examine and image the belly.

Questions you may be asked

  • Surgery, pain medicines

The exam

Listening to the belly.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray or CT:
  • Blood tests: Potassium and magnesium.

Treatment

Usually managed in the hospital.

Self-care

  • Walk as soon as you can after surgery
  • Start with clear liquids
  • Use the least opioid you need
  • Chew gum after surgery if allowed

IV fluids, a stomach tube for vomiting, and fixing salts in the blood.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Walk early after surgery

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually clears in days.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • When can I eat again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ileus (intestines stop moving)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.