Intestinal atony is a condition in which there is a decrease or complete loss of intestinal muscle tone, which leads to a violation of its normal peristalsis. As a result of this process, the intestines lose their ability to effectively move food masses, which can lead to constipation, bloating, a feeling of heaviness and general discomfort. Intestinal atony can be a temporary phenomenon or a chronic condition.
The causes of atony can be a sedentary lifestyle, an unhealthy diet with insufficient fiber, stress, the postoperative period, the use of certain medications (for example, analgesics or antispasmodics) or chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In the elderly, atony often occurs due to age-related changes in the tone of the intestinal muscles.
Treatment of intestinal atony includes a diet rich in fiber, drinking enough fluids, exercising, and using laxatives or agents to stimulate peristalsis. In more complex cases, a consultation with a gastroenterologist may be recommended for a more detailed diagnosis and treatment.