Distal Intestinal Obstruction Syndrome (DIOS)

Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS) is commonly seen in people with cystic fibrosis.

DIOS is a problem with the bowel, or intestine. Food and mucus may partly block the intestine and cause pain. About 1 out of every 10 to 20 people with cystic fibrosis gets DIOS.

Symptoms of DIOS can include cramps, stomach aches, pain around the belly button or lower down. The patient with DIOS may not feel as hungry as they usually do. They may feel full sooner after eating small amounts. If the DIOS is severe, the patient may have vomiting and have a lot of pain. Bowel movements may be very watery. If this happens, go to the emergency department of the hospital closest to you for treatment. This hospital can call our doctors for advice.