What are the symptoms of intestinal obstruction in newborns?

Symptoms of neonatal intestinal obstruction include vomiting, abdominal distension, reduced or stopped defecation, and in severe cases, dehydration, fever, etc. Early identification and timely medical treatment are the key, and treatment methods include conservative treatment and surgical treatment.

1. Common symptoms of neonatal intestinal obstruction

The main symptom of intestinal obstruction in newborns is vomiting, which may contain bile or fecal material. Abdominal distension is another typical manifestation, and the abdomen may be noticeably distended and feel tense when palpated. Decreased or complete cessation of bowel movements, especially if meconium is not passed within 24 hours after birth, indicates possible intestinal obstruction. In severe cases, newborns may experience systemic symptoms such as dehydration, fever, and mental depression, and need to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction

There are many causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction, including congenital intestinal malformations such as intestinal atresia and intestinal malrotation, as well as acquired factors such as meconium ileus and intussusception. Genetic factors may affect intestinal development, and environmental factors such as infection during pregnancy may also lead to abnormal intestinal development. Physiological factors such as immature intestinal peristalsis, trauma such as intestinal damage during delivery, and pathological factors such as inflammation or tumors may all cause intestinal obstruction.

3. Treatment of neonatal intestinal obstruction

Treatment of neonatal intestinal obstruction requires appropriate methods based on the cause and severity. Conservative treatment is suitable for mild cases, including fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, and intravenous rehydration to maintain water and electrolyte balance. Drug treatment can use antibiotics to prevent infection, or use drugs that promote intestinal motility such as domperidone. Surgical treatment is suitable for severe cases, such as intestinal atresia requiring intestinal anastomosis, intestinal malrotation requiring Ladd surgery, and meconium ileus may require enterostomy.

4. Home care and prevention

During home care, parents need to closely observe the newborn's bowel movements and eating habits, and seek medical attention in a timely manner if any abnormalities are found. In terms of prevention, regular prenatal check-ups should be conducted during pregnancy to avoid infection and contact with harmful substances. Newborns should be fed milk as soon as possible after birth to promote intestinal peristalsis and meconium excretion.

Neonatal intestinal obstruction is a disease that requires great attention. Early identification and timely treatment are crucial. Parents should understand the relevant symptoms and causes, actively cooperate with doctors for treatment, and do a good job of home care and prevention to ensure the healthy growth of newborns.