Gastrointestinal dysfunction in the Critically ill Patients

Gastrointestinal dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, infections, food intolerances, medications, and autoimmune disorders. Some gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can be chronic and require...

• Critical illness significantly impacts the gastrointestinal (GI) system, often overlooked in favor of vital organ support. This can lead to various GI complications that, while not always directly fatal, contribute to poorer patient outcomes and increased mortality. These complications stem from compromised mucosal blood supply, pressure effects, altered motility, and changes in splanchnic circulation.