Hirschsprung Disease
Hirschsprung's disease, or HD, is a disease of the large intestine.
The large intestine is also sometimes called the colon. The word bowel can refer to the large and small intestines. HD usually occurs in children. It causes constipation, which means that bowel movements are difficult. Some children with HD can't have bowel movements at all. The stool creates a blockage in the intestine.
If HD is not treated, stool can fill up the large intestine. This can cause serious problems like infection, bursting of the colon, and even death.
Most parents feel frightened when they learn that their child has a serious disease. This booklet will help you understand HD and how you and the doctor can help your child.
Symptoms of HD usually show up in very young children. But sometimes they don't appear until the person is a teenager or an adult. The symptoms are a little different for different ages.
Symptoms in Newborns
Newborns with HD don't have their first bowel movement when they should. These babies may also throw up a green liquid called bile after eating and their abdomens may swell. Discomfort from gas or constipation might make them fussy. Sometimes, babies with HD develop infections in their intestines.
Symptoms in Young Children
Most children with HD have always had severe problems with constipation. Some also have more diarrhea than usual. Children with HD might also have anemia, a shortage of red blood cells, because blood is lost in the stool. Also, many babies with HD grow and develop more slowly than they should.
Symptoms in Teenagers and Adults
Like younger children, teenagers and adults with HD usually have had severe constipation all their lives. They might also have anemia.
Content Courtesy : digestive.niddk.nih.gov
^{The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.}