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Can adult intussusception fix itself?
Though intussusception is rare in adults, most cases of adult intussusception are the result of an underlying medical condition, such as a tumor. In children, the intestines can usually be pushed back into position with a minor procedure. In adults, surgery is often required to correct the problem.
Is intussusception life threatening?
Intussusception is a life-threatening illness. If left untreated, it can cause serious damage to the intestines, since their blood supply is cut off. Intestinal infection can occur, and the intestinal tissue can also die.
What do you do for intussusception?
Treatment options for intussusception may include:
- A water soluble contrast or air enema. This is both a diagnostic procedure and a treatment.
- Surgery. If the intestine is torn, if an enema is unsuccessful in correcting the problem or if a lead point is the cause, surgery is necessary.
What does intussusception feel like in adults?
In adults, intussusception is usually accompanied with intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, melena, weight loss, and fever. Abdominal pain is considered to be the most common symptom, presenting in 70-100% of cases [15].
Is intussusception an emergency in adults?
Adult bowel intussusception is a rare and challenging condition. Preoperative diagnosis is often missed or delayed because of non-specific symptoms. Intussusception is a surgical emergency, and delays in treatment can lead to high mortality.
What causes bowel intussusception in adults?
A polyp, tumor, or scar tissue in the intestine may trigger intussusception in adults. A digestive disorder, such as Crohn’s disease, may also lead to intussusception. Weight loss surgery or other procedures on the intestine may cause intussusception, too.
How painful is an intussusception?
The main symptom of intussusception is severe, crampy abdominal pain alternating with periods of no pain. Painful episodes may last 10 to 15 minutes or longer, followed by periods of 20 to 30 minutes of no pain, after which the pain returns.
How serious is intussusception in adults?
Can you eat with intussusception?
After surgery for intussusception you should eat a regular diet with a variety of healthy foods. Ask the surgeon if you, your baby, or toddler needs to be on a special diet to avoid certain foods.