Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions regarding bowel obstruction:

1. How can I tell if I have a bout of constipation or a bowel obstruction?
   
   
2. Which diagnostic tests will you perform to determine the cause of my bowel obstruction?
   
   
3. Might I have another condition with similar symptoms?
   
   
4. Does this bowel obstruction pose any danger to my overall health?
   
   
5. Does a bowel obstruction always require treatment or will it sometimes resolve on its own?
   
   
6. What are my treatment options?
   
   
7. Will my bowel obstruction require surgical treatment?
   
   
8. How long will my recovery from treatment take?
   
   
9. How can I reduce my risk for bowel obstruction?
   
   
10. Are there certain dietary changes I can make to prevent another bowel obstruction in the future?