The primary symptom of SBS is malnourishment caused
by the inadequate absorption of fluids and nutrients that results from
the removal of significant portions of the bowel. Diarrhea, weight loss,
dehydration, abdominal bloating and pain, heartburn, fatigue, depression,
and steatorrhea (fat in the stool) are often present with SBS. Complications
that may develop over time include sepsis,
pernicious anemia, degenerative changes in the spinal cord and nerves
due to vitamin B12 deficiency, gallstones, kidney stones, bacterial overgrowth,
and metabolic acidosis. In severe SBS,
total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is often required. TPN is a solution
of nutrients that is provided through a tube placed in a large vein to
treat malnourishment.
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
