Overview

A bowel blockage (obstruction) can prevent gas, fluids, or food from moving through the intestines as they should. It can cause constipation. Your child may have pain, nausea, vomiting, and cramping. In rare cases, the blockage can cause diarrhea.

Complete blockages require a stay in the hospital. Your child may need surgery. If your child has had surgery for a bowel blockage, there are things you can do at home to make sure your child heals well.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Have your child rest when your child feels tired.
• If your child had surgery:
  • They may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, if your doctor says it is okay. Pat the cut (incision) dry. Do not let your child take a bath for the first 2 weeks, or until your doctor tells you it is okay.
  • If your child has strips of tape on the cut (incision), leave the tape on until it falls off. Gently wash the area daily with warm, soapy water. Then rinse and pat it dry.
  • Your child may not have much of an appetite after the surgery. When your child feels like eating, start with small amounts of food. Your doctor will tell you about any foods your child should not eat.