Spina Bifida Life Expectancy, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Did you know that one in every 1,000 babies is born with spina bifida? For those who don't know, spina bifida is a birth defect where the spinal cord does not close properly. As a result, there can be problems with bladder and bowel control, movement, and even learning.
While it's impossible to predict how spina bifida will affect someone long-term, it's important to be aware of some of the potential health issues a person with spina bifida might face. In this blog post, we'll discuss spina bifida life expectancy, causes, treatment, and common health issues people with spina bifida may experience. We hope this information provides some insight and inspiration as you navigate your journey with spina bifida.
What Problems Does Spina Bifida Cause?
Some of the most common problems include:
Spinal cord damage
One of the most common Spina Bifida symptoms is damage to the spinal cord. This can lead to a loss of sensation and mobility, as well as problems with bowel and bladder control.
Musculoskeletal problems
Spina bifida can cause a variety of musculoskeletal problems, including scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. These problems can be painful and may require surgery to correct.
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the brain, causing pressure on the brain tissue. It is a common complication of Spina Bifida and can often be treated with surgery.
Spinal deformities
Spina bifida can cause the spine to curve abnormally, which can lead to back pain and difficulty walking. Spinal deformities can often be corrected with surgery.
Nervous system problems
Spina bifida can damage the nerves that control movement and sensation, leading to paralysis, weakness, and numbness. Nervous system problems can often be helped with surgery, physical therapy, and other treatments.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Spina Bifida?
Poor bladder control: This can be a major problem for people with spina bifida as it can lead to urinary infections and incontinence. There are a number of treatments available, including medication, surgery, and special exercises.
Bone disease: Spina bifida can cause a number of problems with the bones, including scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and kyphosis (humpback). These problems can be treated with surgery, braces, and physical therapy.
Learning difficulties: Many people with spina bifida have difficulty learning new things and processing information. This can be helped with special education and therapy.
Loss of mobility in legs: Spina bifida can cause paralysis of the legs, which can make it difficult to walk or even stand. There are a number of treatments available to help people with Spina Bifida regain mobility, including surgery, physical therapy, and specially-designed braces or wheelchairs.
Depression: People with spina bifida can often feel isolated and alone. This can lead to depression, which can be treated with medication, therapy, and support groups.
What are the Causes of Spina Bifida?
There are several possible causes of spina bifida, including:
Genetic factors: Spina bifida is often caused by a combination of genetic factors such as mutations in the gene responsible for spinal cord formation.
Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as organic solvents used in agriculture, may increase the risk of spina bifida.
Nutritional deficiencies: The occurrence of spina bifida may be influenced by dietary deficiencies of folic acid, a type of vitamin B.
Medical conditions: Spina bifida is more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.
What Is The Life Expectancy of Spina Bifida?
One of the most frequently asked questions about spina bifida is, "What is the life expectancy?" The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple one.
Most children born with spina bifida today live into adulthood. However, the severity of the condition can range from very mild to very severe, and their life expectancy can vary greatly as a result.
There are many factors that can affect life expectancy in people with spina bifida, including:
The level of disability
Associated medical conditions
Access to quality care.
People with spina bifida who have milder forms of the condition and do not have any other major health problems can expect to have a normal lifespan. However, those with more severe forms of spina bifida or who have other associated health problems (such as hydrocephalus) may have a shorter life expectancy.
There have been significant improvements in the care of people with spina bifida over the past few decades, and this has led to a significant increase in life expectancy. With access to quality medical care and support, people with spina bifida can expect to lead long and healthy lives.
Conclusion
Spina bifida is a severe birth condition caused by improper development of the spinal cord. This can result in both physical and mental challenges. Spina bifida can be treated either surgically, with medication, or through other means. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Spina Bifida, it is essential to be aware of the possible health complications that may arise.
No one should face Spina Bifida on their own. People with spina bifida can lead full and happy lives with the proper support. If your child exhibits symptoms of spina bifida, consult POBAR, a pediatric orthopedic clinic immediately. We are specialists in treating this illness. Contact us and feel free to schedule an appointment!