Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita
Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita Causes
There are many factors that cause Diaphragmatic hernia. It can be through the genes or might be cause by the environment, or both are involved. It is believed that genes from both the parents and a number of various environmental factors that up until now, scientists do not yet have a full understanding, could contribute to the occurrence of the condition.
Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita Definition
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a collective term for different birth defects brought about by congenital factors which involves the abnormal development of the baby's diaphragm.
Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita Diagnosis
Your baby's doctor, right after birth, will perform an overall physical examination including a chest x-ray to check if there are abnormalities of the diaphram, lungs, and intestine. An arterial blood gas is also done to evaluate the breathing abilities of the baby's. Other tests which may also be performed may include blood testing for chromosomes to examine if there is presence of a genetic problem, and and echodiogram or an ultrasound of the heart.
Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia oftentimes are observed soon after birth. The most common symptoms include difficulty in breathing, fast breathing, very fast pumping of the heart, cyanosis or blueish skin color, chest development is abnormal, abdomen appears concave. Although some babies born with this condition may or may not manifest any symptoms or the symptoms manifested may resemble other conditions.
Diaphragmatic hernia, congenita Treatment
There are many treatment options to select from but choice of option are based on different affecting factors to consider like time of diagnosis either upon birth or during pregnancy, the baby's overall medical and health history, how severe the problem is, the baby's tolerance to medications, therapies or procedures, and the parent's opinion. Treatment options include neonatal intensive care, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or some surgical procedures.