Hirschsprung's Disease Treated at Mercy in Baltimore

Hirschsprung’s disease is characterized by a lack of nerve cells in the large intestines which causes problems with passing stool. Often diagnosed in infants and young children, Hirschsprung’s is a congenital disease. 

Diagnosis is often made within 48 hours to 6 weeks after birth. Most infants with Hirschsprung’s disease cannot pass stool within 48 hours of being born. However, other symptoms can include:

• Distention in the abdominal cavity (bloating)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Failure to thrive
• Vomiting that increases over time

Hirschsprung’s disease is not often diagnosed in adulthood.

Treatment for Hirschsprung’s disease is surgery to remove or bypass the part of the large intestines that is causing stool to become blocked. Issues with constipation can continue after surgery, but can be treated by a gastroenterologist.

Our physicians have extensive experience with Hirschsprung's disease and can help diagnose the condition and provide proper treatment.