Which demographic is at increased risk for bowel obstruction?

Older adults with ulcerative colitis are indeed at increased risk for bowel obstruction. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the large intestine, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Over time, the inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining can cause strictures or narrowing of the intestinal passage.

These strictures can obstruct the flow of stool through the intestines, resulting in a bowel obstruction. As individuals age, their bodies may also become less resilient, making it more difficult to cope with complications arising from chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis. Therefore, this demographic is particularly vulnerable due to the disease’s impact on bowel integrity and the physiological changes that come with aging.

While other demographics mentioned, such as children with constipation or middle-aged adults with high-fiber diets, might experience bowel issues, they do not have the same level of increased risk for obstruction associated with a chronic inflammatory condition like ulcerative colitis in older adults. Similarly, young adults who are highly physically active generally have healthy gut function, which further reduces their likelihood of experiencing bowel obstructions.