Meningocele – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com
Thursday, May 24, 2018 by Ralph Flores
http://www.naturalpedia.com/meningocele-causes-side-effects-and-treatments-at-naturalpedia-com.html
The term meningocele refers to the condition where the membranes covering the spine and the spinal cord protrude through a bone defect in the vertebral column.
The protrusion, which appears in the form of a sac, is visible from the outside of the back. It only contains spinal tissue and is covered with skin or meninges (membranes that protect the nervous system.)
Meningoceles are part of a condition known as spina bifida, where the backbone and the spinal canal do not close after birth.
Known risk factors and symptoms of meningocele
The typical symptom of a meningocele is a lump on the lower back of a newborn child, which indicates some form of deformity in the spine. If the condition is identified, healthcare professionals will conduct imaging studies to determine the malformation and rule out other forms of spina bifida.
The condition develops during pregnancy; thus, mothers who have diabetes and are obese are at risk of having a baby with meningocele. Some medications can also result in spina bifida.
Body systems affected by meningocele
Meningoceles is a cosmetic deformity, as it does not involve the spinal cord or the spinal nerve (this is called a myelomeningocele). However, when the protrusion is large, this may interfere with normal function and development. In addition, if the skin over the sac isn’t fully developed, this can cause it to leak or rupture. This can lead to complications such as a headache or even meningitis.
Food items or nutrients that may prevent or relieve meningocele
Just like other forms of spina bifida, meningoceles are caused by genetics. However, mothers who get enough folate during their pregnancy greatly reduce the incidence of spina bifida. Some sources of folate include whole grains, dried beans, green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, citrus fruits, and fruit juices. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking in folic acid supplements.
Treatment and management options for meningocele
When a newborn has meningocele, surgery is performed within a day or two after birth. This closes the meninges and the skin, and it prevents the risk of infection. It also protects the spine from any exposed area.
Where to learn more
- Neural tube birth defects occur at 400% the national rate near Hanford nuclear site
- Prenatal Vitamin B12 Important to Prevent Neural Tube Defects
- 7 Reasons why You should Include more Squash into Your Daily Diet
- 10 Reasons to Eat More Avocado
- Some All-natural Treatments for Expectant Mothers
Summary
Meningocele is a condition where the membranes covering the spine and the spinal cord protrude through a bone defect in the vertebral column.
Meningocele is part of a condition known as spina bifida, where the backbone and the spinal canal do not close after birth.
The typical symptom of a meningocele is a lump on the lower back of a newborn child.
Meningocele, if untreated, can lead to complications such as a headache or even meningitis.
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