What are the symptoms of Hirschsprungs disease?
Eighty percent of children with Hirschsprung’s disease show symptoms in the first 6 weeks of life. Children who only have a short segment of intestine that lacks normal nerve cells may not show symptoms for several months or years. The following are the most common symptoms of Hirschsprung’s disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: • not having a bowel movement in the first 48 hours of life • gradual bloating of the abdomen • gradual onset of vomiting • fever Children who do not have early symptoms may also present the following: • constipation that becomes worse with time • loss of appetite • delayed growth • passing small, watery stools Symptoms of Hirschsprung’s disease may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Please consult your child’s physician for a diagnosis.
