Myelomeningocele – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Myelomeningocoele is a complex congenital spinal anomaly that results in spinal cord malformation (myelodysplasia). It is caused by the incomplete development of the fetus’ backbone during the first month of pregnancy.

The disorder refers to a birth defect wherein the bones of the spine do not completely form. The spinal cord and meninges (the tissues covering the spinal cord) then stick out of the child’s back.

Infants born with myelomeningocele often have paralysis or weakness below the level of the spinal lesion. This affects the lower limbs and causes problems with bladder and bowel function.

Myelomeningocele is the most severe form of spina bifida, occurring nearly once for every 1,000 live births. Other names for myelomeningocoele are meningomyelocele and spina bifida cystica.

Known symptoms, risk factors for myelomeningocele

A newborn with myelomeningocele will have a fluid-filled sac on the mid to lower back.

Symptoms may include loss of bladder or bowel control; temporary or permanent lack of sensation or paralysis of the legs; and weakness of the hips, legs or feet. Other symptoms may include abnormal feet or legs, such as clubfoot; and fluid buildup inside the skull, such as hydrocephalus.

A child with meningomyelocele is also at risk of developing bacterial meningitis due to the exposed spinal cord.

Body systems harmed by myelomeningocele

Spina bifida may lead to some complications, including:

• Traumatic birth or difficult delivery of the baby
• Urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Low blood oxygen level in the baby

Food items or nutrients that may prevent myelomeningocele

Folic acid supplements are recommended to pregnant women to prevent birth defects such as myelomeningocele. Any woman considering becoming pregnant is advised to take 0.4 mg of folic acid per day, while pregnant women need one mg/day.

Folic acid deficiencies must be corrected before becoming pregnant to avoid the early development of any birth defect.

The following foods can help you obtain your recommended amount of folic acid:

• Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach
• Citrus fruits, such as orange juice
• Beans
• Breads
• Cereals
• Rice
• Pastas

Prospective mothers may be screened to determine the amount of folic acid in their blood.

Take care of your spine with these simple guidelines:

• Lift right – Make sure to use proper form when lifting objects.
• Sleep tight – Adequate sleep is essential to overall health.
• Stretch out – Regular stretching keeps your back and neck flexible and helps maintain a good range of motion.
• Stay active – The best exercise routine for your back and neck is one that combines stretching, strengthening, and aerobic activity.
• Maintain a healthy weight – Being overweight or obese increases your risk for lower back pain. Maintain a healthy weight through exercise and healthy diet.
• Stay hydrated – Staying hydrated maintains soft tissue elasticity and fluidity in joints.
• Work smart – Make sure your workspace is set up for your height and functionality. Take regular breaks between work hours to walk around to loosen up your back muscles.
• Pay attention to warning signs – While it’s normal to have occasional back pain, it can indicate an underlying problem. Consult your healthcare provider immediately for any recurring pain and other symptoms.

Treatments, management plans for myelomeningocele

The most recommended treatment is surgery within the first few days of life. Taking care of an infant with myelomeningocele may include special care and positioning in handling, feeding and bathing, to reduce the damage to the exposed spinal cord.

Antibiotics may be used to treat or prevent infections such as meningitis or UTI.

Most children will require lifelong treatment for problems that result from damage to the spinal cord and spinal nerves, such as bladder and bowel conditions and muscle and joint problems.

Follow-up exams generally continue throughout the child’s life to check the child’s developmental progress. These tests may also detect any intellectual, neurological, or physical problems caused by the disorder.

Where to learn more

• Every neighborhood in America mapped to show risk levels of lead contamination in the water supply
• The Health Ranger Answers Common Questions About Nutritional Supplements (transcript)
• Is synthetic folic acid toxic to your body? Research suggests ‘yes’
• Folic acid deficiencies are widespread; here’s why nearly everyone needs more folate
• Not knowing the difference between folate and folic acid can harm you

Summary

Myelomeningocoele refers to a birth defect that is caused by the incomplete development of the fetus’ spine during the first month of pregnancy. The spinal cord and meninges protrude from the child’s back, causing complications like partial or complete paralysis or weakness below the level of the spinal lesion (hips, legs, feet).

Sources include:

My.ClevelandClinic.org

Healthline.com

MedlinePlus.gov

MedIndia.net

EverydayHealth.com