Intussusception
Intestinal intussusception is a serious pathology in which one loop of intestine is inserted into another. This often leads to obstruction Intussusception also cuts off blood flow to the affected area of the intestine Intussusception can lead to intestinal rupture (perforation), infection, and death of intestinal tissue
Intestinal intussusception is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children under three years of age. Intussusception rarely occurs in adults Most cases of intestinal intussusception in adults are caused by other diseases, such as cancer, while in children its cause is often unknown.
In children, intestinal intussusception can be corrected with the help of X-ray In adults, operative intervention is often necessary
You intestines are one big tube In intestinal intussusception, a portion of the intestine, often the small intestine, is inserted into a nearby part This is sometimes called telescoping
Sometimes, intussusception is caused by an abnormal growth in the intestines, such as a polyp or a tumor. During intestinal contractions, this growth is inserted into the anterior intestine In most cases, the cause of intestinal intussusception cannot be determined
Children In most cases, the cause of intestinal intussusception in children cannot be determined. Because intestinal intussusception is more common in the fall and winter and is accompanied by flu-like symptoms, it has been suggested that a virus may play a role in the development of the condition. In some cases, a growth that causes intussusception will be detected This is often a Meckel's diverticulum (outgrowth from the small intestine).
Adulthood Intestinal intussusception in adulthood is often caused by another medical problem. These are:
- Tumor
- Connective tissue in the intestines (adhesions)
- Scars left by surgery in the small intestine and large intestine
- Hematoma
- Inflammation, for example in Crohn's syndrome
Children
The first symptom of intestinal intussusception in a healthy child may be loud crying due to sudden abdominal pain. Babies with colic may bring their knees to their chest when they cry In the case of intestinal intussusception, the pain is intermittent, initially with 15-20 minute intervals, and then the pain episodes become longer.
Other common signs and symptoms of intestinal intussusception include:
- Mucous and bloody stools
- Vomiting
- Abdominal bloating
- Drowsiness
Rare symptoms include:
Older children may only have pain
Adults
Because intestinal intussusception rarely develops in adults and its symptoms are non-specific, it is often difficult to detect. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are also present Most people have no signs or symptoms
When to consult a doctor
Intestinal intussusception requires urgent help If you or your child develop any of the symptoms listed above, call 911 immediately
Remember that a sign of colic pain in babies can be bringing their legs to their chest and crying
