What is one common trigger for paralytic ileus?

Paralytic ileus is a condition characterized by an absence of peristalsis in the intestines, which can lead to bowel obstruction despite the absence of a physical blockage. One of the most common triggers for this condition is abdominal surgery. After surgical procedures, especially those involving the abdomen, the risk of developing paralytic ileus increases due to a variety of factors. The manipulation of the intestines during surgery can disrupt normal motility and activate the body's stress response, leading to reduced gut activity.

Moreover, the use of anesthesia and medications such as opioids can also significantly impair bowel function post-surgery. This suppression of peristalsis can be compounded by other factors such as electrolyte imbalance or the post-operative state of the patient, which further predispose them to this condition.

While severe dehydration, excessive physical activity, and chronic infections can impact intestinal motility and function, they are not as directly linked to the development of paralytic ileus as abdominal surgery is. Therefore, abdominal surgery is recognized as a primary trigger for this postoperative complication.