What is Obstruction in Pediatrics?
In pediatrics,
obstruction refers to any blockage that impedes the normal flow of bodily fluids or air within a child's body. This can occur in various systems such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or urinary tracts. These blockages can be due to congenital anomalies, infections, inflammations, or foreign bodies.
Intestinal Obstruction: Blockage in the intestines due to conditions like intussusception, volvulus, or Hirschsprung's disease.
Airway Obstruction: Blockage in the respiratory tract, often caused by foreign bodies, congenital anomalies like laryngomalacia, or infections such as croup.
Urinary Tract Obstruction: Blockage in the urinary pathways, which can be due to congenital malformations like posterior urethral valves or kidney stones.
Intestinal Obstruction: Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating, and failure to pass stool or gas.
Airway Obstruction: Symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, stridor, and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen).
Urinary Tract Obstruction: Symptoms include difficulty urinating, frequent urinary tract infections, and abdominal pain.
History and Physical Examination: The physician will take a detailed history and perform a thorough physical examination to identify signs of obstruction.
