90210 Star Matt Lanter's Wife Opens Up About His Recent Health Scare

Actor Matt Lanter recently had emergency surgery after being admitted to the emergency room with severe abdominal pain (via Daily Mail). His wife Angela Lanter shared some information with fans last week but did not immediately disclose what the problem was. She did say that the week had been the scariest of her life. However, on Tuesday, Angela went back to social media to post an update (via People). "Thursday he was diagnosed with a closed loop intestinal obstruction (his small intestine twisted, causing a blockage) and was rushed into emergency surgery," she said in the caption of an Instagram post.

Angela noted that after "some setbacks," Matt is doing a little better. The medical team assisting Matt is reportedly stressing that he moves as much as possible. Matt and Angela were married in 2013 and have a four-year-old daughter together. Matt is known for his roles in "90210" and "Timeless."

What is a closed loop intestinal obstruction?

A closed loop obstruction occurs when any two points of the intestines are blocked, often by the intestines twisting around each other (via Radiopaedia). Symptoms often include abdominal pain, vomiting, and issues passing bowel movements. This condition is considered very serious and needs to be treated immediately. A lack of treatment can lead to intestinal necrosis, which is the deterioration of the intestines due to lack of blood flow to the cells (via National Center for Biotechnology Information). Untreated intestinal necrosis can lead to death.

It is important to talk to your doctor whenever you are experiencing discomfort or pain that can't be explained. While it can be embarrassing to talk about certain health issues with your doctor, it is vital that you are completely honest with them about your health. "The doctor-patient relationship should be a no-embarrassment zone where you feel comfortable to be completely honest," Michael F. Roizen, MD, told Today. Your doctor cannot help you to the fullest extent if you do not trust them enough to be completely honest.