Ileus Due to Iron Pills: A Case Report and Literature Report on the Importance of Stool Softeners

Iron deficiency anemia is the leading cause of anemia in the U.S. and throughout the world. The most commonly available over-the-counter treatment option is oral iron supplements. As they are easily available and inexpensive, the use of iron supplements has increased alongside the increased prevalence of iron deficiency anemia. However, iron pills cause various side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and, rarely, bowel perforation. Iron pills causing ileus secondary to bowel obstruction were rarely reported. Here, we present the case of a female patient with symptoms of bowel obstruction, without any predisposing surgical history, diagnosed with ileus secondary to bowel obstruction from constipation on imaging. In this case discussion and review, we provide a detailed discussion on iron and its gastrointestinal (GI) pathophysiology, bowel obstruction and its causes, associated mortality rates, and management.

Keywords: bowel obstruction; ileus; iron tablets.