A bezoar is a concretion of foreign, indigestible material in the gastrointestinal tract. While bezoars are relatively rare, and often found incidentally, they can be the cause of vague symptoms like nausea and fullness, and lead to complications such as obstructions within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Are bezoars common?

These types of fibers are common in fruits and vegetables. Examples are pumpkin, celery, prunes, beets, leeks, raisins, and sunflower seed shells. This is the most common type of bezoar.

How do I know if I have bezoars?

Most bezoars cause no symptoms. The diagnosis is based on x-rays and other imaging tests and on a visual examination of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Most bezoars need to be broken up into pieces with instruments or with swallowed agents or removed using an endoscope or surgically.