What is dangerous for a newborn encephalopathy?

In medicine, encephalopathy refers to various non-inflammatory processes that directly affect or destroy the brain itself. In this article, we will talk about how the newborn encephalopathy develops and what are its primary symptoms.

general information

Specialists distinguish two types of this disease: congenital and acquired. It is believed that the newborn encephalopathy is mostly congenital in nature. This means that the disease begins to develop during the period of fetal formation inside the mother's womb (approximately from 28 weeks). This kind of pathology is most often caused by oxygen starvation and is called "hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy". In a newborn, experts identify a number of additional factors that lead to the development of such an unpleasant problem, namely:

• Birth trauma ;
• Premature delivery;
• Illness of the mother during the period of gestation;
• Complications;
• Difficulties in opening the birth canal;
• Excessive fetal mass;
• Neuroinfection.

Main symptoms

In a newborn, encephalopathy, as a rule, is diagnosed in the hospital. The reason for the additional examination is usually a weak or somewhat belated baby cry after birth. In addition, the following factors may become a cause for concern: cyanosis of the skin, violation of some congenital reflexes, relatively frequent regurgitation, cramps, lethargy, etc. In some cases, such symptoms go away on their own. In other situations, one can not do without the help of qualified specialists.

Diagnostics

According to experienced doctors, in newborn encephalopathy is very difficult to diagnose because of physiological tone. On the other hand, it is easier to conduct specialized computer research through an open fontanel. This type of diagnosis is prescribed for all children up to a month for preventive purposes, so that if necessary, they start treatment earlier.

Treatment

Encephalopathy of the brain in newborns is very difficult to treat. This is a very long process, which, in turn, consists of several courses. Methods of therapy are selected exclusively by a qualified specialist, based on the underlying cause that caused the disease. As a rule, treatment involves taking certain medicines, physiotherapy, and massage.

Possible complications

Unfortunately, it also happens that after this disease in very young patients there are very serious complications in the form of development of hydrocephalus or convulsive epilepsy. In some cases, even an operation may be required to eliminate these problems. To avoid the development of complications of any degree, doctors are strongly advised to fully, and most importantly, in time to pass the recommended competent therapeutic course.