Can diarrhea last for a week in a kid with intussusception?

Question

Hello doctor,

My daughter had an ultrasound that showed intussusception. They found that it involved a short segment of bowel. She has been experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain for the past seven days, with the symptoms coming and going. We were told that it would resolve on its own and that there was nothing we could do for her. However, we are now thinking about seeking a second opinion from another children’s hospital.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I am truly sorry your daughter is going through this. Based on the ultrasound showing intussusception, along with vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain for seven days, it is important to proceed carefully and not rely solely on a "wait and see" approach, especially when symptoms persist or recur. Intussusception is a serious condition in which part of the intestine slides into another part, like a telescope, which can block the passage of food or blood flow. While some mild cases may resolve on their own, many require urgent medical attention and possibly non-surgical reduction, such as an air or contrast enema, or surgery if complications arise or conservative methods fail. Your daughter's symptoms, especially their persistence and the presence of short bowel, suggest that this is not a typical or self-resolving case, and a second opinion at a children’s hospital is highly recommended. Further evaluation, including repeat imaging, laboratory tests, and possibly a pediatric surgical consultation, is appropriate. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can lead to serious complications, including bowel necrosis.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.