adoptspecialneeds.org

FACTS:

• Megacolon is a complication found with a bowel disease, an infection of the colon, or is present from birth.
• It is a life threatening enlargement of the colon.
• The enlarged colon does not have the nerve cells that help the intestinal muscles to move the stool.  The stool becomes trapped in the colon, filling it, and causing it to expand to larger than normal.
• Symptoms are abdominal tenderness, abdominal pain, or a swollen abdomen.
• Dehydration, fever, a rapid heart rate, or constipation may be present.
• In older children the symptoms can include passing small watery stools, diarrhea, and lack of appetite.
• The child should be taken to the doctor when symptoms are present.

TREATMENT:

• Seeing a doctor is very important to diagnosis and treatment of megacolon.
• If Megacolon appears with another condition, treatment of that condition is necessary to prevent further problems.
• The doctor may recommend a special high fiber diet, stool bulking or laxative medications to assist with keeping the bowels moving. It is important to develop a regular elimination pattern for the child.
• In acute cases, intravenous lines for fluid are usually administered to prevent dehydration and shock.
• Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.
• Surgery may be required in severe cases.
• Children with a megacolon can lead active and normal lives.