Adhesions are stringy (fibrous) bands of tissue that stick together. They form between two surfaces of the body. Adhesions are similar to scars, but they form inside your body instead of on your skin.

Adhesions can be painful and may cause problems if they pull tissues or organs out of their normal positions. They can also cause problems if they block the normal passage of substances in the body. For example, an adhesion that forms in the intestines can block the passage of food.

What are the causes?

This condition is caused by inflammation. Adhesions most often develop after surgery, but they can also develop after an infection, radiation treatment, or another event that causes inflammation in the body.

What increases the risk?

What are the signs or symptoms?

Often, there are no symptoms.

How is this diagnosed?

How is this treated?

Follow these instructions at home:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.

• If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your health care provider. Donot stop using the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

• Follow any diet instructions your health care provider gives you. Your health care provider may recommend a liquid or low-fiber diet in specific cases.

• Keep all follow-up visits. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if you have:

• A fever or chills.

• Pain in the abdomen or pelvis.

• Vomiting or bloating.

• Swelling in the abdomen.

• Loud bowel sounds.

• Constipation.

Get help right away if:

• You have severe pain in your abdomen or pelvis, and the pain is getting worse.

• You have vomiting that will not go away.

• You cannot pass gas.

• You are unable to have a bowel movement.

These symptoms may represent a serious problem that is an emergency. Do not wait to see if the symptoms will go away. Get medical help right away. Call your local emergency services (911 in the U.S.). Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

Summary

• Adhesions are stringy (fibrous) bands of tissue that stick together.

• Adhesions can cause problems if they pull tissues or organs out of their normal positions.

• Symptoms include pain, bloating, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, pain during sex, and difficulty getting pregnant.

• Treatment for this condition includes medicines and surgery.

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.