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Hirschsprung Disease (HD)

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What is Hirschsprung Disease?

Hirschsprung (pronounced HURSH-sprung) Disease (HD), is a disease of the * large intestine, which usually occurs in children.

The large intestine is also sometimes called the colon. The word bowel can refer to the large and * small intestines.

Hirschsprung Disease causes constipation, which means that bowel movements are difficult. Some children with Hirschsprung Disease can't have bowel movements at all. The * stool creates a blockage in the intestine.

If Hirschsprung Disease is not treated, stool can fill up the large intestine. This can cause serious problems like infection, bursting of the colon, and even death.

Most parents feel frightened when they learn that their child has a serious disease. This publication will help you understand Hirschsprung Disease and how you and the doctor can help your child.

Nerve Cells

Nerves are long fibers that carry messages from the body to the brain, and back again, like telephone lines. The messages often tell a body part what to do. Nerve cells are part of nerves. In the intestine, the nerve cells tell muscles how to push the stool along.

Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order

* Large Intestine
Pronounced - in-TESS-tin
The large intestine is a long tube that makes stool and carries it out of the body.

* Small Intestine
The small intestine is the organ where most digestion occurs. It measures about 22 feet and includes the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. More about Small Intestine.

* Stool
Stool is solid waste from the body, the material that gets passed in a bowel movement.

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References:
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
October 2004
digestive.niddk.nih.gov

The information discussed above is a general overview and does not include all the facts, or include everything there is to know about any medicine and/or products mentioned. Do not use any medicine and/or products without first talking to your doctor. Possible side effects of medications, other than those listed, may occur. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions.