For children with Down syndrome, a common cold or stomach bug can be particularly challenging due to a potentially weaker immune system. When combined with Hirschsprung’s disease, these illnesses can lead to more serious complications. Viruses can quickly cause dehydration and impact bowel function, making it essential to maintain proper hydration, especially during illness.
Dehydration and Bowel Function: Illnesses like colds or stomach bugs can lead to dehydration, which in turn affects bowel function.
Diarrhea and Rash: Stomach bugs often cause diarrhea, which can lead to rashes. For rash treatment suggestions, visit the rash page on reachhd.org
Understanding the Impact on the Gut After Surgery
Surgeries unrelated to Hirschsprung’s disease, such as tonsillectomies for sleep apnea, eye muscle surgery (exotropia, common with Down syndrome), or dental procedures, may seem minor but can complicate recovery for individuals with HD+DS due to the effects of anesthesia on the gastrointestinal tract. Anesthesia can slow down the GI tract, leading to a longer and more complicated recovery.
Importance of Hydration: Maintaining hydration is crucial.
Preparation: Spend extra time before surgery explaining the process through books and verbal communication, even if full understanding is uncertain. Walk through all the steps and ensure the GI team is aware of the surgery to address potential bowel-related complications.
General Anesthesia Effects: General anesthesia can temporarily impair gastrointestinal motility, causing postoperative ileus (POI), a condition characterized by neuromuscular failure that mainly affects the small intestine.