Intussusception

General Information on Intussusception

Intussusception is an intestinal obstruction wherein the bowel folds into itself, resulting in a “tube within a tube” formation. The condition occurs most often in infants and children between the ages of 2 months and 6 years. Boys are more easily affected than girls.

Symptoms of Intussusception

Symptoms in infants are characterized by the physical mannerisms of the child. A child may cry out in pain and pull their legs up to their abdomen. In many cases symptoms occur in the form of intervals. The attacks may last anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes apart. Symptoms may include:

Severe abdominal pain
Vomiting
Sweating
Paleness
Rectal bleeding
Swollen abdomen
Lack of energy
Mass or lump in the abdomen that can be felt

Later symptoms produce:

Fever
Increased weakness
Shock (rapid heartbeat, weak pulse, and rapid, short-winded breathing)

Treatments For Intussusception

If you or your child seems to be experiencing symptoms similar to those associated with intussusception, contact your doctor immediately. Delayed treatment may result in severe complications or death. Diagnostic measures include a physical examination of the abdomen, x-rays, blood work, and an ultrasound. An additional barium x-ray may also be needed. A barium x-ray is a diagnostic procedure whereby a liquid containing barium is inserted into the colon, via the rectum, allowing the x-rays to perform more effectively in detecting the intussusception. In many cases, the pressure of the barium is enough to unfold the bowels and cure the intussusception without additional treatment. However, if barium does not reverse the intussusception, surgery may be needed.

Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms similar to those listed above, contact your doctor immediately, as this condition can move from easily curable to life threatening very quickly.

Personal Experience

Intussusception - personal experiences