INTUSSUSCEPTION

INTUSSUSCEPTION

Definition

• Intussusception is a condition where a part of the intestine telescopes into another part, causing a blockage.

Types

• There are two main types of intussusception:
  • Idiopathic: No known cause, accounts for 70-90% of cases.
  • Secondary: Caused by other conditions such as tumors, polyps, or infections.

Pathophysiology

• The process of intussusception is as follows: 1 → A lead point such as a tumor or polyp is present in the intestine. 2 → The intestine folds in on itself, causing a blockage. 3 → The blood supply to the intestine is cut off, leading to ischemia and potentially necrosis.

Epidemiology

• Intussusception is most common in children between 6-36 months of age.
• It is more common in males than females.
• The highest incidence rate is seen in children under 1 year of age.

Causes

• There are several possible causes of intussusception:
  • Idiopathic
  • Tumors
  • Polyps
  • Infections
  • Meckel's diverticulum

Clinical Features

• The most common symptom of intussusception is abdominal pain.
• Other symptoms may include:
  • Vomiting
  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Abdominal distension
  • Constipation

Investigations

• The diagnosis of intussusception is made using:
  • Ultrasound: The most common and most sensitive method of diagnosis.
  • X-rays: May show a mass or a blockage.
  • CT scan: May be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Complications

• If left untreated, intussusception can lead to:
  • Ischemia and necrosis of the intestine
  • Perforation of the intestine
  • Sepsis

Management

• The treatment of intussusception is:
  • Air enema: The most common method of treatment.
  • Surgery: May be necessary if the air enema is unsuccessful or if there are complications.

Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines

• Aconitum: For sudden onset of symptoms.
• Arnica: For abdominal pain and swelling.
• Chamomilla: For anxiety and restlessness.
• Colocynth: For severe abdominal pain.
• Ignatia: For emotional distress.
• Nux vomica: For nausea and vomiting.
• Pulsatilla: For menstrual irregularities.
• Rhus tox: For abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
• Sepia: For menstrual irregularities and anxiety.
• Veratrum viride: For severe abdominal pain and vomiting.

Homoeopathic Treatment

• Give frequent small doses of the medicine.
• Monitor the patient's symptoms and adjust the treatment as needed.
• Use a combination of medicines as needed.
• Consider consulting a homeopathic doctor for a personalized treatment plan.