Moving to a new town comes with a lot of tasks to get done. Not only do you have to get all of your belongings moved, but you have to make changes to your medical care facilities. So, when you get to your new home town, do you know what health care clinics you can rely on for the care of your family? Will you couple your family's healthcare with both a clinic and a PCP? This blog will give you several suggestions about how to manage the changes in your family's healthcare adaptations to ensure you receive the best possible care in your new home town.
Although most babies are born perfectly healthy, some can suffer birth defects. There have been new treatments developed for birth defects in recent years, but some of these defects can still severely impact a child's life. If you are pregnant, there are four birth defects that you should educate yourself about.
Spina Bifida
According to March of Dimes, spina bifida is the most frequent neural birth defect in babies and occurs when the bones in the spine do not come together properly. This birth defect can lead to several health problems in babies including meningitis, learning disabilities, skin problems, and even paralysis. Taking folic acid during pregnancy can reduce the chances of your baby developing spina bifida.
Clubfoot
Also referred as talipes equinovarus, clubfoot affects the positioning of a baby's foot. Although this condition doesn't result in pain in babies, it can lead to discomfort later in life, according to WebMD. If a baby's clubfoot is npt treated promptly, it can cause one leg to be shorter than the other and make it more difficult to participate in various activities. A doctor will usually try to manipulate the foot into a normal position in the beginning. If that does not work, surgery may be required.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal alcohol syndrome results when a woman drinks alcohol during pregnancy, and it is one of the most preventable birth defects. According to KidsHealth.org, this birth defect can lead to severe side effects like poor coordination, behavioral problems, small head circumference, and learning difficulties. When children with fetal alcohol syndrome become adults, they are more likely to engage in criminal activity and unable to live by themselves. To prevent this devastating birth defect, women should avoid alcohol while they are pregnant.
Down Syndrome
Caused by an extra chromosome, down syndrome leads to a variety of problems including heart defects, intellectual disabilities, and vision problems. Children with this birth defect may have a small nose with a flattened bridge, short stature, slanted eyes, and low muscle tone. Although there is no cure for down syndrome, children with this condition can still go to school, interact with others, and live normal lives.
Birth defects are unfortunate, but you can work with your doctor on the best preventative habits. Talk with a place like All Women's Clinic about how to monitor your baby's progress. Sonograms have come a long way and can detect many birth defects. If you are aware of your baby's birth defect, you will be more prepared when he or she is born.
Share26 August 2015
