Which of the following is listed as a sign of ileus?

• A. Acute abdomen pain
• B. Abdominal distention
• C. Throw up feces
• D. None of the above

Answer: (B)

Ileus is a slowdown or stoppage of normal intestinal movement, so gas and fluid accumulate in the intestines. That buildup causes the abdomen to become distended, which is why abdominal distention is the sign listed for ileus. In contrast, acute, sudden abdominal pain is more typical of conditions causing rapid irritation or injury, and vomiting can occur with ileus but throwing up feces is more characteristic of a mechanical obstruction with a complete blockage. So the most fitting sign here is the visible or palpable abdominal distention from slowed motility. In practice, you may also hear reduced or absent bowel sounds with ileus as the motility is diminished.