Intussusception in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Intussusception is a condition that causes part of the bowel to fold into itself like a telescope. The fold blocks the bowel and its blood supply, which can damage the bowel. Intussusception often involves both small and large bowels. It is the most common cause of bowel obstruction in children.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Medicines:
Your child may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases your child's fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask your child's healthcare provider how much to give your child and how often to give it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If your child takes blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for him or her. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children younger than 6 months without direction from a healthcare provider.
- Do not give aspirin to children younger than 18 years. Your child could develop Reye syndrome if he or she has the flu or a fever and takes aspirin. Reye syndrome can cause life-threatening brain and liver damage. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin or salicylates.
- Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell the provider if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your child's healthcare provider in 1 to 2 weeks:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Nutrition:
Give your child a variety of healthy foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Ask if your child needs to be on a special diet. Continue to breastfeed or bottle feed your infant.
Contact your child's healthcare provider if:
- Your child has a fever.
- Your child's symptoms return.
- Your child is irritable, fussy, and crying more than usual.
- Your child is eating and drinking less than usual.
- Your child is urinating less than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Seek care immediately or call 911 if:
- Your child has severe pain and a swollen abdomen.
- Your child is not urinating.
- Your child is weak or sleeps more than usual.
- Your child's bowel movement has blood in it or looks like red jelly.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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