Intussusception is a serious condition where a section of the intestine moves into another section of the intestine. The Mayo Clinic explains that this disorder is rare and often occurs because the small intestine or colon moves and prevents the passage of fluid or foods. The intussusception restricts blood flow to the area affected within the intestine leading to serious complications. Although rare, this is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children, states the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms vary for children and adults affected by this condition.
Pain
Intussusception is more common in children than adults. An infant may let out a sudden cry or pull the knees to the chest while crying. This is due to a sharp pain in the abdomen. The pain may come and go over 15 to 20 minutes, states the Mayo Clinic. Older children can experience this same intermittent pain.
Should an adult develop the condition, the pain may be located in one section of the abdomen or the pain may be described as abdominal cramping. Over time the pain may become more persistent instead of intermittent.
Stool Symptoms
Because of the obstruction of the intestines, unusual stool may be produced. It is often mixed with mucus and blood. Diarrhea is common with an intussusception. Adults may have more frequent bowel movements or experience a sudden urge to eliminate. In addition to blood in the stools, an adult may have bleeding at the rectum. Merck Manuals describes the blood and mucus stool as appearing like currant jelly.
Abdominal Changes
A child or adult may develop a lump in the abdomen that is visible or can be felt. The stomach can also become swollen as a result of the condition. Nausea and vomiting may accompany any of these symptoms in adults or children. The abdomen may be painful to the touch.
Other Symptoms
A child may develop other signs of illness with or without other symptoms of intussusception, such as a fever with lethargy or shallow breathing. Dehydration also can occur. The symptoms of this include dry mouth, infrequent urination, crying without tears in children, darkened urine or increased thirst. Merck Manuals suggests a child may become irritable or listless between episodes of pain.
