Understanding Spina Bifida: Essential Side Effects and Precautions Explained
The joy of expecting a new life growing inside often makes moms-to-be naturally want to take extra care of their babies. Pregnancy brings a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement to worry about the baby’s health. While these mood swings can be caused by pregnancy hormones, it’s also crucial to remember that pregnancy weakens the immune system, upping the risk of infections. One particularly concerning condition is Spina Bifida.
### What is Spina Bifida?
Spina Bifida is a birth defect where the spinal cord doesn’t develop completely because the neural tube doesn’t close properly. This leads to part of the spinal cord protruding through the opening. Children with Spina Bifida can suffer from nervous system damage, often resulting in paralysis. It’s a relatively common issue, affecting about 1,500 babies each year in the U.S. While the exact cause is unknown, factors like high body temperature, obesity, diabetes, and a lack of folic acid are believed to contribute.
### Types of Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida comes in three types: occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele, each with varying severity and symptoms.
– **Occulta**: The least severe form, where a layer of skin covers the spinal opening, and it rarely causes any disability or symptoms.
– **Meningocele**: This type envelops the brain and spinal cord. Surgery is often required to avoid nerve damage.
– **Myelomeningocele**: The most severe type, where the spinal cord is exposed through the spine. It can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
### Side Effects of Spina Bifida
– **Urine and Kidney Problems**: Many patients need lifelong antibiotics to prevent infections. Around 70% receive drug therapy, while 30% don’t respond well and may require major surgeries during childhood to facilitate easier self-catheterization.
– **Muscles and Movement**: As children grow heavier, walking difficulties may arise due to tendon imbalances, causing joint deformities. Surgeries on the ankle, knee, or hip could be necessary.
– **Bowel Movements**: Children might struggle with bowel control, typically due to constipation, which can often be managed with medication. If that fails, bowel washouts are recommended.
### Prevention
By the time Spina Bifida is detected in a fetus, it’s often too late to prevent it. Therefore, preventive steps should be taken before and during pregnancy. Consuming folic acid, which is found in leafy greens, nuts, beans, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals, can significantly reduce the risk. Many doctors advise pregnant women to ensure they get enough of this crucial nutrient.
