SPINA BIFIDA

TETHERED SPINALCORD (shown above)

FETUS WITH HYDROCEPHALUS (shown above)

  HYDROCEPHALUS

Spina Bifida is one of the causes of Tethered Spinal Cord and Hydrocephalus.

Tethered Spinal Cord is a stretch-induced functional disorder associated with the fixation (tethering) effect of inelastic tissue on the caudal spinal cord, limiting its movement. This abnormal attachment is associated with progressive stretching and increased tension of the spinal cord as a child ages, potentially resulting in a variety of neurological and other symptoms.

Hydrocephalus is caused by either increased production of CSF or impaired circulation and absorption

Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the spine. Here are the latest national statistics on spina bifida in the United States:

1.)Each year, about 1,400 babies are born with spina bifida, or 1 in every 2,758 births, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The exact cause of spina bifida is unknown. There is no cure but most people with spina bifida lead long and productive lives.

2.)Who it effects the most: Hispanic women have the highest rate of having a child affected by spina bifida, when compared with non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black women. Data from 12 state-based birth defects tracking programs were used to estimate the total number of pregnancies affected by spina bifida compared to the total number of live births (also called the prevalence of spina bifida) for each racial/ethnic group:

• Hispanic: 3.80 per 10,000 live births
• Non-Hispanic black or African-American: 2.73 per 10,000 live births
• Non-Hispanic white: 3.09 per 10,000 live births

The symptoms listed below are some of the ways in which tethered spinal cord syndrome may be exhibited in children:

• Lesion on the lower back
• Fatty tumor or deep dimple on the lower back
• Skin discoloration on the lower back
• Hairy patch on the lower back
• Back pain, worsened by activity and relieved with rest
• Leg pain, especially in the back of legs
• Leg numbness or tingling
• Changes in leg strength
• Progressive or repeated muscle contractions
• Bowel and bladder problems

Spina bifida consequences that may occur, know the type of the spina bifida gives an idea of how many problems the patient will have:

• Abnormal sensation or paralysis, which mostly occurs with closed neural tube defects and myelomeningocele.  People with these conditions typically have some degree of leg and core muscle weakness and loss of feeling in the groin and feet or legs.  The sensation can be more significant on one side of the body.
• You may see deterioration of the gait in the patient’s walking.  Typically, the lower in the spine where the condition occurs results in less weakness and loss of feeling.  The strength and feeling do not improve with age due to nerve damage.  People with these types of spina bifida may lose strength and sensation as they grow and mobility can become more difficult with age.  People with these conditions may walk independently or use some combination of leg braces, walkers, crutches, or wheelchairs.  As they age, they may require more of these supports.
• Chiari II malformation, in which parts of the brain called the brain stem and the cerebellum (hindbrain) protrude downward into the spinal canal or neck area.  It is almost always seen on advanced imagining of the brain in people with myelomeningocele, but it rarely causes symptoms.  When it does, this condition can press on the spinal cord and cause a variety of symptoms including difficulty breathing, swallowing, and arm weakness.  Surgery is sometimes required to reduce pressure in this area.
• Blockage of cerebrospinal fluid, causing a condition called hydrocephalus.  Hydrocephalus is the abnormal buildup of the fluid that surrounds the brain.  Most people with myelomeningocele have this condition, which is not seen in the other types of spina bifida.  This buildup can put damaging pressure on the brain.  Hydrocephalus is commonly treated by surgically implanting a shunt—a hollow tube—in the brain which allows drainage of the excess fluid into the abdomen where it is absorbed by the body.  The tube is tunneled under the skin and not very noticeable to others.  Another treatment option is an endoscopic third ventriculostomy or ETV, a procedure that creates a new path for the fluid to flow.
• Meningitis, an infection in the meninges covering the brain.  It can sometimes be associated with shunts.  Meningitis may cause brain injury and can be life-threatening.
• Tethered cord syndrome can occur with all forms of spina bifida, although it is very rare in individuals with spina bifida occulta.  Usually the spinal cord and nerves float freely.  A tethered cord means that there is some type of tissue attached to and pulling the cord down.  This can cause damage to the nerves and decrease feeling and strength, as well as problems with bowel and bladder control.  It is surgically treated if a person has symptoms.
• Bowel and bladder incontinence affect most individuals with myelomeningocele and closed neural tube defects.  The nerves at the very bottom of the spine control bowel and bladder function and don’t usually work properly in people with these types of spina bifida.  Most people with myelomeningocele and some types of closed neural tube defects need a regimen or other assistance to drain their bladders periodically or to have regularly scheduled bowel movements.
• Learning disabilities, including difficulty paying attention, understanding concepts, impaired motor skills, impaired memory, and difficulty with organization and problem solving are commonly seen in children with myelomeningocele.  People with strength lower down in their legs tend to have less difficulty than those with more leg weakness.  Evaluation for an individualized education plan is recommended for all children with myelomeningocele.
• Other complications such as skin ulcers, low bone mineral density, impaired male fertility, obesity, and kidney failure can be seen in people with myelomeningocele and neural tube defects as they age.  Additionally, people with myelomeningocele are at risk for precocious puberty (when changes to that of an adult occur too soon), sleep apnea, and depression.

The estimated lifetime cost of care for a person with spina bifida, with caregiving costs, is $791,900.

Learn tomorrow how you can prevent Spina Bifida with much more!

“Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect that happens when a fetus’s spine and spinal cord don’t close properly during early pregnancy.

The neural tube forms the brain and spinal cord during embryonic development. When it doesn’t close, it leaves a gap in the spine. This gap can affect the vertebrae, spinal cord and nearby nerves. In more severe cases, a fluid-filled sac may stick out through the opening.

Symptoms range in severity.”

Cleveland Clinic (Spina Bifida: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment)

Healthline states the following about Adult ADHD:

• “Adult ADHD may manifest as difficulties with organization, relationship management, focus, restlessness, and managing emotions.
• To receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, you must exhibit at least five symptoms associated with ADHD for a minimum of six months.
• If you’re experiencing disruptive ADHD symptoms, seek professional evaluation. Solutions like therapy, stress management, and medication are available to help manage the condition.”

Healthline (Adult ADHD: 14 Signs and Symptoms)

Though that ADHD is something that kids would outgrow.

We now know this is not true.

ADHD is neurobiological disorder that affects individuals across the lifespan.

ADHD doesn’t end at age 18. When adult ADHD goes undiagnosed, is misdiagnosed, or is not adequately treated, the effects can extend well beyond the individual.

The doctor for adults never diagnosed or miss diagnosed for ADHA will examine the consequences when this happens to adults with ADHD that can also include patients with  management that was discontinued, or care poorly managed, including increased risks related to employment and economic stability, relationships, physical and mental health, substance use, driving and injury, and involvement with the justice system.

For policymakers, these are not simply healthcare concerns. The effects of undiagnosed and inadequately treated ADHD can ripple through the workforce, families, schools, healthcare systems, public safety, and communities. They have a direct financial and social cost to their constituents and communities.

Approximately 15.5 million adults have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In early adulthood, ADHD may be associated with depression, mood or conduct disorders and substance abuse. Adults with ADHD often cope with difficulties at work and in their personal and family lives related to ADHD symptoms.  Many have inconsistent performance at work or in their careers; have difficulties with day-to-day responsibilities; experience relationship problems; and may have chronic feelings of frustration, guilt or blame.

Individuals with ADHD may also have difficulties with maintaining attention, executive function and working memory.  Recently, deficits in executive function have emerged as key factors affecting academic and career success. Executive function is the brain’s ability to prioritize and manage thoughts and actions. This ability permits individuals to consider the long-term consequences of their actions and guide their behavior across time more effectively.  Individuals who have issues with executive functioning may have difficulties completing tasks or may forget important things.

Healthline states that:
FDA Approves ‘First-in-Class’ NDSRI for ADHD in Adults and Children

A new medication to help treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) will be available later this year. Otsuka Pharmaceutical has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for SIMTRIYO, a daily extended-relief tablet that contains the active ingredient centanafadine.

The new medication is approved for use in adults and children 6 years and older who weigh at least 44 pounds. Otsuka officials say their drug is the first norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin reuptake inhibitor (NDSRI) to treat ADHD.

Max Wiznitzer, MD, a professor of pediatrics and neurology at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio and the co-chair of the Professional Advisory Board for the organization Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD), said he also plans to use SIMTRIYO as a backup treatment for people who aren’t seeing benefits from current medications. Wiznitzer said he needs more evidence that SIMTRIYO is more effective than stimulant-based medications before prescribing it more often, but he is glad to have it available. “It’s good to have another alternative,” he told Healthline.  Remember its a NEW DRUG so you need time to see its effectiveness just like with Covid 19 that is why the vaccine was changed in time from the initial vaccine that was made with research done in a few years after 2020.

“ADHD Awareness Month is celebrated every October,  the facts to know on ADHD

• Males are almost three times more likelyTrusted Source to be diagnosed with ADHD than females.
• During their lifetimes, 13 percent of menTrusted Source will be diagnosed with ADHD. Just 4.2 percent of women will be diagnosed.
• The average ageTrusted Source of ADHD diagnosis is 7 years old.
• Symptoms of ADHD typically first appear between the ages of 3 and 6Trusted Source.
• ADHD isn’t just a childhood disorder. About 4 percent of American adults over the age of 18 deal with ADHD on a daily basis.”

Healthline (www.healthline.com)

“October is a month set aside for lung awareness. It’s National Healthy Lung Month, and Lung Health Day is October 28. National Respiratory Care Week is October 25-30.

It may seem arbitrary to set aside a particular month for health awareness, but it’s useful to remind ourselves of the things in our environment that can harm us and to act with compassion toward those who have already been harmed.

Lung disease affects a staggering number of Americans. About 10 million adults are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis each year, and about 4.7 million others have ever been diagnosed with emphysema.

Chronic bronchitis and emphysema constitute the diseases that make up Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). About 25 million people live with asthma as well.

Occupational lung diseases, which include asbestosis and mesothelioma, also affect many Americans. Occupational illnesses are estimated to cost $150 billion annually.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), typically caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage the lungs and airways, is attributed to occupational exposure 19.2% of the time.”

Lung Institute (Healthy Lung Month – Lung Institute)

October is a month set aside for lung awareness. It’s National Healthy Lung Month, and Lung Health Day is October 28. National Respiratory Care Week is October 25-30. It may seem arbitrary to set aside a particular month for health awareness, but it’s useful to remind ourselves of the things in our environment that can harm us and to act with compassion toward those who have already been harmed.

Lung disease affects a staggering number of Americans. About 10 million adults are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis each year, and about 4.7 million others have ever been diagnosed with emphysema. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema constitute the diseases that make up Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). About 25 million people live with asthma as well.

Occupational lung diseases, which include asbestosis and mesothelioma, also affect many Americans. Occupational illnesses are estimated to cost $150 billion annually. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), typically caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage the lungs and airways, is attributed to occupational exposure 19.2% of the time.

In support of Healthy Lung Month, let’s raise awareness about the rapid escalation of lung disease in the United States.

The notion that harmful air pollutants exist only outdoors is false. Some pollutants occurring in the home can be more harmful than those commonly encountered outdoors. Modern homes harbor many sources of respiratory irritation, but it’s not terribly difficult to lung-proof your home. Some common lung irritants found indoors are lead, formaldehyde, radon, cleaning agent vapors, and fire-retardants. Natural pollutants also make their way into the home, including pet dander, dust mites, and mold. Here are a few simple ways the people, especially those with lung disease, can avoid these lung damaging agents.

• Clean the Air:Buy a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce lead, chemical build-up, and allergens such as pet dander in the home. Follow this step by mopping with a microfiber mop to soak up any leftover particles.
• Avoid exposure to indoor pollutants that can damage your lungs.
• Minimize exposure to outdoor air pollution.
• Green Your Space:Fill your place with plants! Indoor plants help purify the air, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene. Spider plants and aloe vera plants are good choices for the home.
• Go Natural: Fragrances in cleaning products, laundry detergents, and air fresheners can all damage the lungs opt for fragrance-free whenever possible.
• Test for Radon: Make sure your home has a radon detector. This colorless, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today.
• Don’t Vape or Smoke

Your entire body depends on your lungs to keep breathing and distributing oxygen-rich blood throughout your body and to get rid of the body’s gaseous waste, carbon dioxide. Our bodies do have a natural defense system designed to protect the lungs, keeping dirt, germs and other irritants at bay. But there are some important things you can do on a regular basis to keep your lungs healthy and reduce the risk of disease.

Sometimes we take our health for granted. Lungs keep us alive and well and for the most part, we don’t need to think about them.  Remember without lungs we couldn’t survive.  Love your lungs this October and work to make any necessary changes to keep yours healthy!

“”Menopause occurs when menstrual periods stop permanently, usually between ages 45 and 55, marking the end of ovarian function and a sharp decline in estrogen and progesterone production.

This hormonal shift can cause hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and mood changes. Sleep disturbances are common, often due to night sweats or frequent urination, which can lead to fatigue and affect daily functioning.”

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/womens-health/features/menopause-womens-health-and-work.html)”