What are intussusception warning signs in a baby?

What does the evidence show for intussusception in a baby?

• The bowel can telescope into an adjacent segment, affecting passage of its contents and blood supply. Episodes of sudden intense crying may come and go before becoming more sustained. The baby appearing quieter between episodes does not establish that the problem has resolved. 1
• Possible signs include severe intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, a swollen belly and bloody mucus in the stool. Not every sign must occur before you seek care. This is a different concern from ordinary brief fussiness in an otherwise well, feeding infant. 2
• Hospital assessment may include ultrasound and an air or contrast enema performed by trained clinicians. In some cases the procedure can both identify and relieve the blockage; surgery may be needed if it does not work or complications are present. Home constipation care is not an alternative. 1
• Blood in a baby’s stool has several possible explanations, but blood accompanied by abdominal distress or a baby who looks ill needs prompt assessment. Preserve a description or photograph if available without delaying care. A small-looking diaper finding does not outweigh concerning behavior. 3
• CDC describes a small additional intussusception risk after rotavirus vaccination, while noting that most vaccinated babies have no such problem. Tell the team about recent vaccines, but do not assume timing proves the cause. The same emergency symptoms need assessment regardless of vaccination history. 4

When should I call my provider about intussusception in a baby?

Go to an emergency department for repeated severe abdominal pain, vomiting with marked distress, a swollen abdomen, bloody mucus in stool or unusual lethargy. Call emergency services for collapse, poor responsiveness or breathing difficulty. Do not try a laxative or home enema.