Ониходистрофия ногтей у детей и взрослых: фото, симптомы, причины, лечение

Ониходистрофия — это изменение структуры ногтевых пластин неинфекционной природы. Заболевание сигнализирует о патологических процессах в организме и вызывает эстетический дискомфорт. Ониходистрофия ногтей проявляется отслоением и разрушением пластины, поэтому ее легко спутать с грибком и другими инфекциями. Любые тревожные симптомы требуют консультации дерматолога и тщательного обследования. Только так можно поставить правильный диагноз и назначить адекватное лечение.

Причины

Деформация развивается под влиянием нарушения обменных процессов в клетках и нехватки питательных веществ. Плотность ногтя меняется, он отслаивается, крошится и трескается. Предпосылкой для этого служат многочисленные причины:

• авитаминоз;
• нехватка кальция;
• хронические заболевания внутренних органов;
• затяжной стресс;
• ухудшение циркуляции крови;
• гормональные нарушения;
• воздействие бытовой химии;
• механическое повреждение ногтевых пластин.

Заболеванию подвержены люди, пользующиеся некачественным лаком. В составе такой продукции много токсичных веществ, пагубно действующих на ногти и разрушающих их структуру.

В зоне риска находятся дети. Пластина ребенка слишком тонкая и остро реагирует на любые изменения в организме. Причиной ониходистрофии у малышей может стать вирусная инфекция, нехватка витаминов, нарушение работы пищеварительной системы.

В некоторых случаях повреждения у детей и взрослых провоцируют грибковые заболевания, для устранения которых требуется комплексная терапия антимикотическими препаратами.

Классификация

Болезнь проявляется по-разному. В медицинских кругах его классифицируют в зависимости от характера повреждений. Основные виды ониходистрофии:

• Онихошизис — расслаивание ногтей на несколько отдельных пластин.
• Онихорексис — растрескивание пластины по краям.
• Онихогрифоз — утолщение и деформация ногтя.
• Склеронихия — задержка роста, отслаивание и изменение цвета.
• Трахионихия — шершавая поверхность, формирование на ней мелких чешуек.
• Гаполонихия — чрезмерная ломкость и рыхлость ногтей.
• Койлонихия — небольшие вмятины на пластинах.
• Онихомадезис — отслаивание ногтя. Если оно вызвано повреждением, возможен воспалительный процесс и скопление гноя.

Частым проявлением болезни считаются борозды Бо. Это специфические поперечные линии, углубленные в пластину на 1 мм. Образовываются при травмировании или являются осложнением псориаза.

Симптомы

Ногти выполняют защитную функцию, ограждая пальцы от повреждений. Они состоят из пластины и корня. Первая включает в себя ороговевший белок кератин, воду и липиды, скрепляющие слои кератина между собой.

Ногтевой корень — матрикс — формирует клетки будущей пластины. Нехватка питательных веществ ведет к замедлению продуцирования клеток в матриксе и ухудшению состояния ногтей. Это одна из главных причин развития ониходистрофии.

Симптомы патологии зависят от классификации, но можно выделить общие черты, объединяющие все разновидности:

• уплотнение рогового слоя;
• изменение формы пластины;
• появление тонких продольных белых полос;
• ломкость и отслоение;
• задержка роста;
• покраснение кутикулы.

Заболевание имеет три стадии. Вначале на пластине образуются небольшие полоски или пятнышки, на которые человек редко обращает внимание. Затем появляется шершавость, ломкость, начинается отслоение. На третьей стадии происходит деформация рогового слоя и его разрушение. Процесс часто сопровождается воспалением близлежащих тканей.

Диагностика

Для подтверждения диагноза требуется обследование. После визуального осмотра дерматолог назначает анализ крови, чтобы определить активность щелочной фотофтазы. Кроме этого, необходимо сдать соскоб с пораженного участка, чтобы исключить грибковую инфекцию.

Для диагностики используют дерматоскопию — аппаратный метод, оценивающий патологические изменения под многократным увеличением прибора дерматоскопа, или конфокальную микроскопию, изучая поврежденные ногти под микроскопом.

Чтобы выяснить точную причину заболевания, человека могут направить на консультацию к узким специалистам. Важно следовать всем указаниям врача. Это поможет выяснить истинную картину и подобрать нужное лечение.

Лечение

Схема терапии зависит от причины, вызвавшей патологию. Если в ходе обследования обнаружилось сопутствующее заболевание, нужно обязательно ликвидировать его. Например, восстановить гормональный фон, обеспечить достаточное поступление витаминов, нормализовать работу желудка, вылечить грибок.

Чтобы избавиться от ониходистрофии, требуется комплексный подход, включающий в себя:

• лекарства для приема внутрь, укрепляющие сосудистые стенки и улучшающие микроциркуляцию крови;
• витамины;
• физиотерапию;
• массаж.

Целесообразно использовать рецепты народной медицины. Травяные ванночки, компрессы насыщают матрикс полезными веществами, улучшают поступление крови к пальцам и возвращают здоровье пластинам.

Медикаментозная терапия

Для улучшения питания ногтевого корня у мужчин и женщин используются препараты в таблетках:

• Волвит. В его составе находится биотин, витамин группы В. Он улучшает обмен веществ в клетках и способствует укреплению ногтевой пластины. С его помощью восстанавливается ее нормальный рост, исчезают деформация и расслоение. Рекомендованный курс — 30 дней в суточной дозе 5 мг.
• Медобиотин. Препарат на основе биотина. Выпускается в таблетках по 2,3 мг по 15 или 30 штук в упаковке. Их нужно пить до еды, запивая большим количеством воды. Максимальная суточная доза при лечении ониходистрофии — 5 мг.
• Ксантинола никотинат. Эффективное лекарство используют для улучшения кровообращения. Таблетки обладают сосудорасширяющим действием и имеют свойства никотиновой кислоты и теофиллина. Дозировку назначает врач в индивидуальном порядке.

Для лечения ребенка необходимы специальные витаминные комплексы, адаптированные для детей. Их выписывает педиатр после обследования.

Хорошо себя зарекомендовал лечебный карандаш Peclavus. Это немецкая разработка, поставляющая питательные вещества прямо в матрикс. Использование карандаша стимулирует рост, укрепляет пластину и регенерирует повреждения. Средством смазывают поверхность ногтя 1—2 раза в сутки.

Если деформация вызвана травмированием, может начаться инфекционный процесс. Его легко убрать ихтиоловой мазью или линиментом Вишневского. Средства снимают отечность, раздражение, улучшают циркуляцию крови в пораженных участках и заживляют раны.

Когда заболевание имеет грибковую природу, требуются мази и кремы, устраняющие инфекцию. Широкий спектр действия у Тербинафина, Гризеофульвина, Флуконазола. Для дезинфекции полезно использовать раствор Фукорцина.

Физиотерапевтические методики

Высокой эффективностью обладает физиотерапия. Вылечить деформацию рогового слоя можно при помощи фонофореза.

Это процедура, во время которой витамины и другие лекарственные вещества вводятся под кожу ультразвуком. Лечение насыщает ткани кислородом, усиливает поступление крови к пальцам, снимает воспаление и запускает процесс регенерации.

Врач может порекомендовать:

• УФО — терапию ультрафиолетовыми лучами.
• ПУВА-терапию, включающую использование псоралена, фотоактивного вещества. Его наносят на кожу перед ультрафиолетовым облучением.
• Диатермию — прогревание тканей током специальным аппаратом.

Больному рекомендуются медицинский маникюр и массаж пальцев.

Народное лечение

В комплексе с традиционным лечением хорошие результаты обеспечивает народная медицина.

1. Для компресса ложку глицерина разводят в таком же количестве теплой воды, добавляют 5 г квасцов, размешивают. Пропитывают в жидкости бинт и прикрывают больные ногти на 30 минут.
2. Полезны масляные маски. Перед проведением кожу рук или стопы надо распарить в теплой воде. Затем покрыть каждый ноготь и кутикулу разогретой смесью оливкового и эфирного масла. На 1 чайную ложку масла оливы достаточно 3—4 капли эфирного масла, например, иланг-иланг, розмарина или эвкалипта. Прикрыть пальцы марлей, пищевой пленкой, надеть хлопковые перчатки или носки. Оставить на 1 час, снять компресс и провести легкий массаж пластин.
3. Улучшает состояние ногтей желатин. Надо отмерить столовую ложку порошка, залить 250 мл горячей воды и оставить на полчаса. За это время масса набухнет. Поставить ее на водяную баню и прогреть 5 минут, помешивая. Однородный состав разделить на равномерные порции и съесть в течение дня. Лечение продолжать ежедневно месяц.

Ванночки

Чтобы усилить поступление крови к пальцам, укрепить пластину, смягчить кожный покров на стопах и руках, полезны горячие ванночки. Их рекомендуется делать, растворив в 2 литрах горячей воды по ложке соды и соли.

Можно воспользоваться травами:

• ромашкой;
• календулой;
• зверобоем;
• эвкалиптом.

Нужно взять по 2 ложки любого ингредиента, залить 0,5 л кипятка и настоять 30 минут. Отцедить, добавить литр теплой воды и использовать для процедуры. Время проведения — 15 минут. Периодичность — 3 раза в неделю.

Профилактика

Чтобы не допустить возникновения ониходистрофии, следует вести здоровый образ жизни, своевременно лечить заболевания внутренних органов и избавляться от инфекции. Важно включить в рацион продукты, насыщенные витаминами и кальцием:

• творог;
• молоко;
• овощи;
• фрукты;
• зелень;
• говяжью печень;
• отварную курятину.

Обязательно строго придерживаться правил личной гигиены. При контакте с бытовой химией защищать руки перчатками и использовать только качественные лаки для ногтей.

причины, лечение народными средствами — pinkskin.ru

Ониходистрофия ногтей: лечение и основные причины возникновения

Здоровые, ухоженные ногти не только выглядят красиво и привлекательно, но и являются одним из внешних признаков того, что в организме человека все в полном порядке.

Увы, в жизни периодически что-то идет в разрез с нашими планами:

• Травма ногтя;
• Перенесенные заболевания;
• Грибок ногтей;
• Эмоциональное расстройство;
• Гормональный сбой в организме;
• Авитаминоз;
• Внешнее воздействие кислот, щелочей, моющих и чистящих средств;
• Использование некачественных лаков для ногтей.

Эти и некоторые другие факторы зачастую провоцируют у человека развитие ониходистрофии — заболевания, при котором поражается как сам ноготь, так и его ложе, а в некоторых случаях и ногтевой валик. Данная проблема может затрагивать ногти, как на руках, так и на ногах.

Ониходистрофия ногтей — это патологическое изменение ногтя, при котором нарушаются процессы клеточного питания и дыхания, входящие в непрерывный обмен веществ. В результате этого ногтевая пластина может истончаться, утолщаться, слоиться, крошиться, покрываться продольными либо поперечными трещинами, отслаиваться от своего ложа, изменять цвет и деформироваться.

Если вы заметили хотя бы один из перечисленных выше симптомов — это повод для безотлагательного обращения к врачу для проведения соответствующей диагностики, выявления причины болезни и назначения подходящего именно вам комплекса лечебных мероприятий.

Затягивание с посещением клиники и самолечение в данном случае недопустимо, так как может привести к обострению заболевания и полному разрушению ногтя.

Ониходистрофия ногтей: лечение данного недуга занимает довольно длительное время, в особо сложных случаях восстановление может занять несколько лет.

Для того чтобы добиться наиболее быстрого и качественного исцеления от ониходистрофии ногтей, лечение должно идти по определенному плану:

• Во-первых, это своевременное обращение в лечебное учреждение. Ведь проблема сама не уйдет, а состояние ваших ногтей без должного лечения лишь ухудшится.
• Во-вторых, консультация и обследование у врача-миколога, дерматолога или подолога. Ониходистрофия это, грибок ногтей, либо что-то другое можно выявить лишь при клиническом анализе в лаборатории, где проведут необходимые тесты с небольшими частицами ваших предварительно изъятых и подготовленных частей пораженного ногтя.
• В-третьих, после установления заболевания, разрушающего ваш ноготь, необходимо выявление причины, спровоцировавшей это. Так к ониходистрофии может привести вполне невинный на первый взгляд стресс (даже если у вас нет привычки обкусывать в таких случаях ногти), проблемы с сердцем, желудком или иными органами, псориаз, диабет, беременность и многое другое. Так же вероятна травма ногтя вследствие удара, поражения химическими веществами, ношения тесной или неудобной обуви. Вероятнее всего доктор после обследования направит вас сдать анализ крови на гормоны и сахар и, при необходимости, пройти обследования у узких специалистов.
• В-четвертых, составив полную картину заболевания, доктор назначит лечение, которое следует неукоснительно соблюдать для достижения более быстрого и стойкого результата.

Существует небольшой нюанс — иногда пациенты, проходя лечение уже длительное время, отмечают, что ноготь выглядит и ощущается совсем здоровым, и перестают применять предписанные врачом лекарства и процедуры.

В связи с этим, спустя какое-то время симптомы и болезнь вновь возвращаются. Так происходит, потому что заболевание, практически побежденное применяемым комплексом мер, ослабло и симптомы его на первый взгляд либо слабы, либо и вовсе незаметны.

При этом причина ониходистрофии ногтей, лечение которой было прервано, оказалась окончательно не пролеченной. Поэтому очень важно не бросать начатого лечения даже после видимых улучшений. В любом случае, если у вас возникают сомнения в необходимости продолжать лечение, рекомендуем предварительно проконсультироваться по данному поводу с ведущим вас специалистом.

Основные же принципы лечения ониходистрофии всегда основаны на комплексе мер, направленных на:

• Устранение причины, спровоцировавшей заболевание (приведение в норму гормонального фона, пролечивание гастрита и прочее).
• Стимулирование процессов клеточного питания и дыхания ногтя, ногтевого валика и ногтевой пластины.

• Медикаментозное лечение.
• Прием витаминно-минеральных комплексов.
• Систематическое проведение медицинского маникюра либо педикюра, в зависимости от места поражения.
• Массаж пальцев рук, кистей либо стоп для улучшения циркуляции крови и питания тканей.
• Всевозможные ванночки, обертывания, примочки.
• Применение медицинских мазей, кремов и кератолитических лейкопластырей.
• Проведение разнообразных физиотерапевтических мероприятий, например, таких как ионофорез.

В крайних случаях (зачастую при сильной запущенности ониходистрофии или в связи с сильнейшей аллергией на назначенное медикаментозное лечение) доктор может прибегнуть к хирургическому вмешательству.

Наиболее часто применяемые препараты при ониходистрофии

На сегодняшний день врачи не ограничены в выборе средств терапии, но при диагнозе ониходистрофия лечение в большинстве случаев проводится при помощи нижеследующих препаратов:

• Восстанавливающий карандаш Peclavus.
• Кератолитические лейкопластыри, например, Микоспор и Онихопласт.
• Ванночки с солевыми и укрепляющими растворами.
• Разогревающие и питательные масла.
• Раствор Фукорцин в ампулах.
• Таблетированные формы: Медобиотин, Волвит, Ксантинола никотинат.
• Крема и мази с добавлением кортикостероидов, питательных веществ, витаминов и аминокислот: крем для ногтей Флекситол, салицилово-цинковая мазь, ихтиоловая мазь, линимент бальзамический, Онихопласт-крем.

Ониходистрофия ногтей: лечение народными средствами

При ониходистрофии ногтей лечение народными средствами довольно популярно не только в нашей стране, но и в мире.

Следовательно, рецепты всевозможных аппликаций, ванночек, припарок и прочего исчисляются тысячами.

Особенно вкупе с медикаментозными препаратами, средства народной медицины помогают значительно ускорить восстановление поврежденных ногтевых пластин и близлежащих тканей.

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90000 Epilepsy In Children — Causes, Symptoms And Treatment 90001 90002 Around 90003 50 million 90004 people in the world have it (1). More than 450,000 children in the US were diagnosed with it (2). 90005 90002 Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions affecting people around the world. Characterized by frequent seizures, epilepsy can leave the child paralyzed or even unconscious at any time, making it a serious threat that can not be ignored. 90005 90002 MomJunction tells you about epilepsy in children, how you can recognize it and how it can be treated.90005 90010 What Is Epilepsy? 90011 90002 The brain follows a synchronous pattern to send electrical signals to control the different functions and senses of the body. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the transmission of these signals. A person can develop epilepsy at any age. However, the incidence rate is known to be higher in children under 20 years (3). 90005 90002 When a person has epilepsy, the brain signals are disrupted, and an epileptic seizure begins in the brain. An epileptic child can experience different types of seizures affecting the entire body or just a particular part.That said, not all seizures are epileptic, which is why it is important to understand what happens to the child during a seizure and what you can do about it. 90005 90002 [Read: 90003 Absence Seizures In Children 90004] 90005 90010 Epileptic Seizures 90011 90002 Epilepsy affects the individual physically in the form of seizures also referred to as 90003 ‘fits’ 90004. These occur when the communication of neurons from and to the brain is disturbed. These seizures can be focal or generalized seizures.90005 90002 90003 Generalized seizures 90004 affect neurons or cells on both sides of the brain, and can manifest in convulsions ranging from barely noticeable to severe fits. They may result in loss or impairment of consciousness sometimes. Generalized seizures can be (4): 90005 90030 90031 90003 Atonic seizures 90004 that limp the muscles, causing the patient’s body to crumple down to the floor, often resulting in injuries. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Absence or Petit Mal 90004 are fits that occur suddenly, when the patient becomes motionless and stares straight ahead.After the seizure, the person continues to be active as if this time of absence never happened. These are uncommon and last for at least 15 seconds. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Myoclonic fits 90004 lead to increased muscle tone, causing muscle spasms or jerks in a particular body part. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Clonic seizures 90004 cause the child’s body to spasm and jerk. During this seizure, the legs, hands and elbows first fle, x and then relax, slowly at first and then at a greater speed.90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Tonic seizures 90004 stiffen the muscles first and then result in loss of consciousness. The muscles of the head, chest, and hands contract causing the back to arch and the eyes to roll back into the head. The person has difficulty breathing. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Tonic-clonic seizures, 90004 earlier referred to as Grand Mal seizures, are perhaps the most difficult. They have several phases, starting with loss of consciousness followed by the tonic phase, and then the clonic phase.90034 90035 90002 90003 Focal seizures 90004 are partial seizures that affect only a particular part of the brain. These seizures can be 90003 simple focal seizures 90004, which occur in less than 15% of people with epilepsy, and 90003 dyscognitive focal seizures 90004, which occur in more than 35% of people having epilepsy (5). Both simple and dyscognitive focal seizures affect only one part of the brain. However, dyscognitive focal seizures cause confusion, loss of memory and awareness, while simple focal seizures do not affect the child’s cognitive abilities.Further categorization of focal seizures is based on where they begin and what they affect. 90005 90002 When the child is awake and aware during the seizure, it is called 90003 focal onset aware seizure. 90004 When the child is confused or not entirely awake during the episode, it is called 90003 focal onset impaired awareness. 90004 If the beginning of a seizure is not known or if no one observes the seizure, it is called 90003 unknown onset seizure. 90004 90005 90002 A sudden increase in body temperature, fainting due to drop in blood pressure, and other medical conditions can also cause seizures.This means that not all seizures indicate epilepsy. So, how do you know if it is an epileptic seizure? More importantly, what should you do if you suspect that the child has an epileptic seizure? 90005 90002 Keep reading to find out. 90005 90002 [Read: 90003 Brain Gym Excersices For Kids 90004] 90005 90010 Symptoms Of Epilepsy In Children 90011 90002 The symptoms of epilepsy depend on where the seizure had begun and which part of the body it has affected, and can be physical or mental. So, what happens during a seizure depends on the type of seizure the child has.Epileptic seizures are usually characterized by the following: 90005 90094 Motor symptoms 90095 90030 90031 Severe jerking or convulsions of the body 90034 90035 90030 90031 Weakness or numbness of the muscles 90034 90035 90030 90031 Repetitive movements such as clapping hands or rubbing hands, chewing, running , or lip smacking indicate focal seizures 90034 90035 90030 90031 Inability to swallow, drooling 90034 90035 90030 90031 Losing control of urine or stool suddenly, especially during a seizure 90034 90035 90094 Non-motor or absence symptoms 90095 90030 90031 Changes in sensations, emotions, or cognition, usually before a seizure — these could include déjà vu (a feeling of having been at a place or experiencing something earlier too, although it did not) and jamais vu (a feeling that something is familiar although it is not) 90034 90035 90030 90031 Staring spells (Absence fits), which can be mistaken for daydreaming 90034 90035 90030 90031 Changes in internal functions such as gastrointestinal activity, heat or cold waves, rapid heartbeat, and goosebumps 90034 90035 90030 90031 Change in skin color — looks pale or flushed 90034 90035 90002 Unknown onset non-motor seizure symptoms could include behavior arrest, which means that the child suddenly stops what he is doing and stares blankly or becomes still.90005 90002 90003 90138 What to do when your child has an epileptic seizure? 90139 90004 90005 90002 Watching the child have an epileptic seizure is one of the most painful and frightening things for a parent. So what can a parent do to help a child having a fit? 90005 90002 Lack of information is why most parents feel helpless when their child has a seizure. Not anymore. Read on to find out what you should and should not do when the child has an epileptic seizure. 90005 90002 [Read: 90003 How To Understand Child Psychology 90004] 90005 90150 90010 Do: 90011 90030 90031 Place the child gently on the floor, and remove objects that are around him.Put child in the recovery position, i.e., on the side, with bottom arm up, top arm flexed and the top leg flexed. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Slowly turn the child to his side to prevent choking on the vomit or saliva, especially if there is drooling. Turning the child on the side or keeping the head lower will allow the secretions to run out and not pool in the back of the throat. Do not put any objects or fingers in the mouth in the middle of a seizure; that might cause damage as the jaw often clenches.90034 90035 90030 90031 Loosen the clothing around the neck, such as the collar or necktie. Check if the breathing is fine. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Keep track of how long the seizure lasts. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Call the doctor once the child is in a safe position. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Once the seizure ends, the child will probably feel tired or sleepy. 90034 90035 90002 Stay with the kid throughout the seizure and until the child wakes up after resting. Make sure that the kid gets some rest after the episode.90005 90010 Do not: 90011 90030 90031 Try to stop the child’s shaking or convulsions. Holding the child will not stop the seizures but will only make them uncomfortable. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Put anything in the child’s mouth. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Give the child any food to eat or drink, medicinal pills, or tonics during the seizure. Wait till the child is awake and alert to give medication. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Put anything in the child’s mouth or pry open the mouth with your hands when the child has a tonic seizure.Your child will not swallow his tongue. Forcing the teeth apart can cause injuries and even block his airways. 90034 90035 90197 90010 Call the doctor immediately if: 90011 90030 90031 The seizure lasts for 90003 more than five minutes. 90004 90034 90035 90030 90031 The color of the skin, lips, or face turns bluish 90034 90035 90030 90031 The kid has hit his head due to a fall or any other way before the seizure 90034 90035 90030 90031 The child has a seizure when in water 90034 90035 90002 Take the child to a doctor if he seems very ill or has any unusual or concerning symptoms.Also get the child an epilepsy bracelet to alert people around, especially paramedics and emergency medical technicians, about the child’s medical condition and provide first aid. 90005 90010 Causes Of Epilepsy 90011 90002 The causes of epilepsy vary by age. In some people, epilepsy is genetic, but in many others, the reason remains unknown (4). 90005 90030 90031 Some children develop genetic epilepsy, which is caused by one or more genes in the body. How the genes affect the brain and how they cause seizures is not clear yet.90034 90035 90030 90031 Developmental disorders such as neurofibromatosis, Down’s syndrome, Angelman’s syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis can also increase the chances of epilepsy. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Around 3 to 10% of kids with autism disorder may have seizures from time to time. 90034 90035 90030 90031 In 3 to 10% people, epileptic seizures are caused due to changes in the brain structure. Sometimes, children are born with these structural changes, which can lead to seizures, 90034 90035 90030 90031 Seizures can also occur due to head injuries, which are common in young adults and children.90034 90035 90030 90031 Fever, infections, and brain tumors can also cause epilepsy. Seizures are common when the infection, even though removed by medication, damages the brain to some extent. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Progressive brain diseases, although rarely, can cause seizures in kids. 90034 90035 90002 [Read: 90003 Behavioral Problems In Children 90004] 90005 90010 Diagnosing Epilepsy In Children 90011 90002 Every child who has seizures or fits need not necessarily have epilepsy.Hence, knowing about different seizures and differentiating between epileptic and non-epileptic seizures is not easy. Accurate diagnosis of epilepsy is imperative to determine the right course of treatment. To do that, doctors may recommend: 90005 90030 90031 90003 Blood tests 90004 to check for any infection in the brain, genetic conditions, or other medical conditions that could trigger a seizure. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Neurological 90004 tests to check the child’s behavior, motor abilities, cognitive function, and such to determine the type of epilepsy in the child.90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Electroencephalogram (EEG), 90004 which is the most commonly prescribed test to diagnose epilepsy. Electrodes are attached to the scalp to study the brain’s electrical activity. The behavior of the brain waves is examined for abnormalities and presence of epilepsy. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Computerized tomography 90004 or CT scan to get cross-sectional images of the brain to determine if abnormalities such as bleeding, cysts, or tumors if any, are causing the seizures.90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Magnetic resonance imaging 90004 or MRI to get a detailed view of the brain for abnormalities or lesions in the brain. 90034 90035 90030 90031 90003 Functional MRI 90004 to detect changes in the blood flow when certain parts of the brain are active or functional. This helps in identifying the specific areas of the brain that are affected and prevents surgeons from damaging critical areas of the brain during surgery. 90034 90035 90002 Other tests such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) may be needed to detect abnormalities in the active regions of the brain and pinpoint where the seizures are originating.90005 90002 In some cases, doctors may recommend other tests such as the autonomic reflex study, cardiac Holter monitor, sleep study, and movement disorder physiologic study if they suspect that a medical condition other than epilepsy is causing the seizures. 90005 90010 Treatment Of Epilepsy In Children 90011 90002 The course of treatment for an epileptic child will depend on the type of epilepsy, the age of the child, response to medication, and other factors such as the child’s overall health.While it is possible that epilepsy symptoms, including seizures, may eventually fade away in some cases, it depends on the type and severity of epilepsy. 90005 90002 Otherwise, the goal of epilepsy treatment is to reduce the frequency of seizures and control them with medications. The doctor may also consider other treatment options ranging from simple dietary changes to brain surgeries to stop the seizures. 90005 90094 Medications 90095 90002 Anti-epileptic drugs are the most commonly used medications to minimize the frequency of seizures and to prevent them if possible.There are several brands of anti-epileptic medicinal products, but not all may be the same. Your epileptologist will consider your child’s age, type of seizures and their severity, frequency, lifestyle, side-effects of the drug, and other factors before prescribing an anti-epileptic drug for the child. 90005 90002 Usually, only one anti-seizure medication is enough to control the seizures. The medicines are for at least two years, sometimes three or four years after the seizures stop. They are then tapered and eventually discontinued.There may, however, be a chance that the seizures may return, but most of them can be controlled using the medication. That said, 65% of children who have not had a seizure in two years with the help of medication tend to remain seizure-free after the drug is discontinued (5). 90005 90002 Please note that anti-epileptic medications also have certain side-effects such as weight gain, inability to concentrate, inability to reason, and behavioral problems such as hyperactivity and irritability. Talk to your doctor about the medication’s side-effects before starting the treatment.90005 90002 [Read: 90003 Conduct Disorder In Children 90004] 90005 90094 Dietary changes 90095 90002 The doctor may recommend a change in the diet depending on the child’s age and if the epilepsy is medication-resistant. A high fat, low carbohydrate ketogenic diet triggers a state of ‘ketosis’, wherein the body breaks down the fat instead of the carbs. Ketosis can prevent seizures, although it works only for some types of epilepsy in children. 90005 90002 Studies show that 50% of epileptic patients on a ketogenic diet have more than 50% improvement in controlling seizures and a 10% more chance of living a seizure-free life (6).The child may also be free of seizures after transitioning to a normal diet, with the help of a trained healthcare specialist. 90005 90002 Note that it is not easy for children to adhere to dietary restrictions with little or no carbohydrates in the food. Keeping the child away from carbohydrate rich foods such as bread, rice, sugars, and sweets, may not be easy. 90005 90094 Surgery 90095 90002 Surgery is recommended when the seizures are persistent and not responding to medications or dietary changes, or when the doctors identify a brain lesion that is causing seizures.If the preliminary examination and tests deem that the child is fit for surgery, experts suggest that it should be done as early as possible. 90005 90094 VNS Therapy 90095 90002 Vagus nerve stimulation or VNS therapy uses a pacemaker like device to send electrical impulses to the brain via the vagus nerve, to prevent seizures. The device is implanted under the skin near the chest, and is ideal for epilepsy patients who are not responding to medications and are not fit for surgery. While the efficiency of this has been tested extensively on adults, the effect of VNS device on pediatric epilepsy patients is still being studied.90005 90002 Alternative therapies such as Ayurveda may have some treatment options for people with epilepsy. While there is not any detailed research on Ayurveda and epilepsy, studies talk about personalized courses of the treatment for epilepsy (7). So, not all epilepsy will get the same treatment in Ayurveda. Also, note that the traditional medicines and procedures are not clinically tested or proven to work. 90005 90010 Prevent Epileptic Seizures 90011 90002 Epileptic seizures can not be stopped using medications.But if you know what kind of seizures the child has and what triggers them, you can prevent situations which lead to the seizures. While the triggers may vary based on the type of epilepsy that the child has, here are a few commonly reported triggers that must be avoided. 90005 90030 90031 Sleep deprivation is a common trigger for seizures. Ensuring that the child gets enough sleep every night can help reduce the chances of a seizure. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Prevent head injuries with protective gear such as helmets while biking or skateboarding.90034 90035 90030 90031 Teach your children to walk and step carefully to avoid falls, which can cause head injuries. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Keep the child away from over-stimulants such as bright lights or loud noises to prevent a seizure. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Make sure that the child does not skip the anti-seizure medication, and ensure that he takes it at the same time every day. 90034 90035 90030 90031 Teach the child stress-management techniques and create a stress-free environment, as stress and strain can also trigger seizures in some cases.90034 90035 90030 90031 Follow a healthy diet with more protein and fewer carbohydrates. However, talk to the doctor before making any drastic changes to the kid’s diet. 90034 90035 90002 Epilepsy is not easy to live with. That said, an epileptic child need not lose out on the little pleasures of life. Use of medications and following seizure-preventive measures, can improve your child’s and your quality of life. Talk to and seek the guidance of a medical practitioner, preferably an epileptologist, to learn more about how you can help the epileptic child.90005 90002 [Read: 90003 Foods To Boost Kid Brain Power 90004] 90005 90002 Do you wish to share something on epilepsy in children? Then leave it in the comments section below. 90005 90376 Recommended Articles: 90377 Was this information helpful? .90000 Causes, Symptoms And Treatment Methods 90001 90002 Nat was staring at the teacher and continuously blinking her right eye. Her teacher just thought she was being silly and did not pay much attention. Another time, the teacher saw Nat constantly grimacing at another student. This time, she was worried as that was not normal behavior for Nat, who is usually friendly and polite with everyone in the class. 90003 90002 Nat was not silly or rude. She had a repetitive muscle-spasm or movement, also referred to as the Tic syndrome.Here, MomJunction explains twitches and tics in children, why they happen and how they can be treated. 90005 90003 90007 What Are Tics? 90008 90002 Tics are involuntary muscle or vocal spasms that are sudden, repetitive, and last for a specific duration. Tics usually occur in children under 18 years, and studies reveal that 20% of school-going children are affected by it (1). 90003 90002 The severity of tics varies from one child to another. 90003 90002 Tics increase in severity when the child is around 11-12 years old and decrease during adolescence.These do disappear eventually, but in some cases, the child experiences them in adulthood as well (2). 90003 90002 Comorbidities are common among children who suffer from tics http://nationalautismassociation.org/pdf/MedicalComorbiditiesinASD2013.pdf. Children with tics may also have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), separation anxiety disorder or learning disorders. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/emotional-problems/Pages/Tics-Tourette-Syndrome-and-OCD.aspx. 90003 90002 Back to top 90003 90007 Symptoms Of Tics 90008 90002 The frequency, intensity, and duration of the spasm or tic may vary from one person to another. The symptoms may also vary between 90022 simple tics 90023 and 90022 complex tics. 90023 90003 90002 Simple tics are short-term and could be either vocal or motor. 90022 Simple vocal tics in children 90023 could be: 90003 90031 90032 Sighing 90033 90032 Coughing 90033 90032 Grunting 90033 90032 Other vocal sounds such as hooting or shouting 90033 90040 90002 90022 Simple motor tics 90023 could include: 90003 90031 90032 Blinking 90033 90032 Nose twitching 90033 90032 Shoulder shrugging 90033 90032 Head jerking 90033 90032 Jaw movements 90033 90040 90002 [Read: 90022 Muscular Dystrophy In Children 90023] 90003 90002 Complex tics last longer and are often a combination of multiple tics.90022 Complex vocal tics 90023 could involve 90022 repetitive use of words or phrases 90023 that have no relevance to the conversation. The child may 90022 repeat his or her own words or repeat something said by another person 90023. These words may be spoken in a specific manner or just grunted in between. 90003 90002 90022 Complex motor tics 90023 could be a 90022 combination of blinking, head jerking, and shoulder shrugging 90023 in a specific order. They could also involve evident physical movements such as 90022 jumping, hopping, 90023 or 90022 an obscene gesture 90023, and could seem like a deliberate or voluntary action.In some cases, complex motor tics in children could just be an 90022 imitation 90023 of another person’s actions. 90003 90002 Back to top 90003 90007 Causes Of Transient Tic Disorder: 90008 90002 There is no known cause of tics in children. Studies suggest that there could be more than one contributing factor. Researchers believe that a combination of 90022 environmental and biological factors 90023 can develop the tic syndrome in a child. Environmental factors such as allergens, chemicals in cleaning products and even exposure to violence in movies or video games can trigger a tic (http: // www.worrywisekids.org/node/119). 90003 90002 Some researchers suggest that tic disorder in children is genetic, while others suggest that 90022 abnormalities in the brain 90023 or with the neurotransmitters could result in a tic syndrome. Tic syndromes could also be the result of certain 90022 medical conditions 90023 such as stroke, toxins in the body, head trauma, surgery or infection, but these are uncommon. 90003 90002 Neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington’s disease, neuroacanthocytosis and Creutzfeldt-Jakob could also contribute to development of tics in kids.90003 90002 Tic syndrome in children could also develop if: 90003 90031 90032 there were complications during his birth 90033 90040 90031 90032 the mother had consumed alcohol or smoked during pregnancy 90033 90040 90031 90032 The child’s birth weight was low 90033 90040 90031 90032 The child had group A ß-hemolytic streptococcal ( «strep») infection (this is still being studied) 90033 90040 90002 Back to top 90003 90007 Diagnosis 90008 90002 Diagnosis of tics is not easy, as a few symptoms such as nose twitching, sniffing, or throat clearing could also occur due to an allergic reaction.Diagnosis of tics begins with a complete physical and neurological evaluation, followed by a study of the child’s medical history to determine if an underlying medical condition is causing the tics. 90003 90002 During the diagnosis, doctors would check for: 90003 90123 90032 Age when the tic symptoms have manifested; ideally it must be before the child turns 18 90033 90032 Severity of tics 90033 90032 Duration of tics 90033 90032 Type of tics: vocal or motor 90033 90132 90002 [Read: 90022 Anxiety Disorders In Children 90023] 90003 90002 If the child has had short- term vocal or motor tics for at least a month but less than a year, it is 90022 transient tic syndrome.90023 If the tics are vocal or motor and are more long-lasting, and persist for a year or more, it is 90022 chronic tic disorder. 90023 Tics are often confused with 90022 Tourette syndrome, 90023 which is the persistence of both motor and vocal spasms or tics for at least one year (3). 90003 90002 Back to top 90003 90007 Treatment 90008 90002 Tics usually do not require treatment unless they affect the child’s everyday activities or are very severe. Treatment options for tic syndromes could include: 90003 90151 1.Cognitive behavioral therapy 90152 90002 Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the best treatments and most recommended options for tic disorders. Psychologists use a form of CBT called habit reversal training that focuses on the emotion preceding a tic. Once the events or situations that may trigger the tic are identified, the therapist helps the child learn a less visible motor reaction. 90003 90002 For instance, facial tics in children such as nose twitching or blinking, the therapist may help replace that with a less obvious one such as deep breathing or closing the eyes for a few seconds.Behavioral therapy may also help in reducing the frequency of the tics through breathing and relaxation techniques. 90003 90151 2. Medication 90152 90002 Depending on the reason behind the tic, the doctor may prescribe: 90003 90031 90032 Neuroleptics or antipsychotics such as pimozide, risperidone, and aripiprazole are the main medicines for tics in children (4). They work on altering the chemicals that control the motor abilities. However, they may have side-effects such as blurred vision, weight gain, constipation, and dry mouth.90033 90040 90031 90032 Clonidine helps minimize the symptoms of tics as well as ADHD. 90033 90040 90031 90032 Botulinum toxin helps in relaxing specific muscles and in preventing tics. The effect of this medication, however, lasts only for three months. 90033 90040 90031 90032 Clonazepam also alters the production of chemicals in the brain to reduce the severity and frequency of tics. 90033 90040 90002 Note that these are prescription medications and come with a few side-effects. So speak to your doctor to determine what’s best for your child.It must be noted that very few simple tics that is not due to an underlying condition ever need medication as the potential side-effects usually outweigh the benefit. 90003 90002 [Read: 90022 OCD In Children 90023] 90003 90151 3. Treatment of underlying medical condition 90152 90002 If the diagnosis reveals that tics are a result of an underlying condition, treatment of that condition will help eliminate tics in children. 90003 90002 Besides these, there are a few homeopathic remedies. However, Where possible, the trigger must be identified and removed or minimized.90003 90002 Back to top 90003 90007 Home Care And Management Of Tics 90008 90002 In most cases, you can manage the tic syndrome without any medication or treatment. Remember that tics are involuntary or no-fault neurological symptoms, which means that the child is not doing them on purpose. A little bit of care on how you react to the tics can go a long way in minimizing the problem or even preventing it. 90003 90002 Here are a few home care tips to deal with tics in children. 90003 90031 90032 Stress and anxiety are perhaps the most common triggers of tics in a kid.So try to keep the child in a stress-free environment. 90033 90040 90031 90032 Sometimes, tics could indicate a food allergy. . If indicated, then et your kid tested for food allergy and avoid dairy, foods with artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, processed foods, corn syrups, and other gluten foods for a while. Discuss this with your healthcare provider first. 90033 90040 90031 90032 Ensure that the child rests well in the night. They should get at least ten hours of sleep. 90033 90040 90031 90032 If the tics are not severe, ignore them.Paying too much attention to it can stress out the child, and make it worse. 90033 90040 90031 90032 Tics can be embarrassing. Reassuring the child that nothing is wrong with them can help reduce the frequency of tics. 90033 90040 90031 90032 A study found that 72% of children having ADHD had a magnesium deficiency (5). Given the link between ADHD and tic syndrome, giving the child magnesium-rich foods and supplements can be a good idea. 90033 90040 90002 Back to top 90003 90002 [Read: 90022 How To Manage Stress In Children 90023] 90003 90002 A healthy diet, lifestyle, and a positive environment can help the child stay healthy and relaxed, which can minimize tics and also aid in their treatment.Tics can be frustrating, especially because they are involuntary and present themselves at the worst of times. The best way to handle them is to stay calm and let the child be stress-free about it. Also, make a note of the events before the tics manifest. This will help you identify the triggers, which make treating the tics or preventing them easy. 90003 90002 In general, if the tic does not bother your child, then it should not bother you. Your child’s healthcare provider will just have to rule out other causes to be safe.90003 90231 Recommended Articles: 90232 Was this information helpful? .90000 Hair Loss in Children: Causes and Treatments 90001 90002 You might not be surprised, as you get older, to notice that your hair is starting to fall out. Yet seeing your young child’s hair fall out could come as a real shock. 90003 90002 Hair loss is not uncommon in kids, but its causes may be different from those of adult-onset baldness. Often, children lose hair because of a scalp disorder. 90003 90002 Many of the causes are not life-threatening or dangerous. Still, losing hair can take a toll on a child’s emotional well-being.It’s hard enough to go bald when you’re an adult. 90003 90002 Because hair loss may have a profound psychological effect on kids, it’s important to see a doctor for treatment. 90003 90002 Often, hair loss in children is caused by an infection or other problem with the scalp. Here are some of the most common causes. 90003 90012 Tinea capitis 90013 90002 This scalp infection spreads when kids share personal items such as combs and hats. It’s also known as ringworm of the scalp, although it’s caused by a fungus.90003 90002 Kids with tinea capitis develop patches of hair loss with black dots where the hair’s broken off. Their skin may turn red, scaly, and bumpy. Fever and swollen glands are other possible symptoms. 90003 90002 A dermatologist can diagnose tinea capitis by examining your child’s scalp. Sometimes the doctor will scrape off a tiny piece of the infected skin and send it to a lab to confirm the diagnosis. 90003 90002 Tinea capitis is treated with an antifungal drug taken by mouth for about eight weeks.Using an antifungal shampoo along with oral medication will prevent your child from spreading the virus to other kids. 90003 90012 Alopecia areata 90013 90002 Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. Your immune system attacks the follicles from which hair grows. About 1 out of every 1,000 children has the localized version called alopecia areata. 90003 90002 Alopecia comes in different forms, depending on the pattern of hair loss: 90003 90002 children with alopecia areata may become totally bald.Some lose the hair on their body, too. 90003 90002 Doctors diagnose alopecia areata by examining your child’s scalp. They may remove a few hairs to examine under a microscope. 90003 90002 There’s no cure for alopecia areata, but some treatments can help regrow hair: 90003 90034 90035 corticosteroid cream, lotion, or ointment 90036 90035 minoxidil 90036 90035 anthralin 90036 90041 90002 With the right treatment, most kids with alopecia areata will regrow hair within one year. 90003 90012 Trichotillomania 90013 90002 Trichotillomania is a disorder in which kids compulsively pull out their hair.Experts categorize it as a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some kids pull their hair as a kind of release. Others do not realize they’re doing it. 90003 90002 Kids with this condition will have patchy areas of missing and broken hair. Some children eat the hair they pull and can develop big balls of undigested hair in their belly. 90003 90002 The hair will grow back once children stop pulling it out. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches kids to become more aware of the hair pulling. This therapy helps them understand the emotions that trigger the behavior so they can stop it.90003 90012 Telogen effluvium 90013 90002 Telogen is the part of the normal hair growth cycle when hairs stop growing and rest. Then, old hairs fall out to allow new ones to grow in. Normally, only 10 to 15 percent of hair follicles are in this phase at any one time. 90003 90002 In kids with telogen effluvium, many more hair follicles go into the telogen phase than normal. So instead of losing 100 hairs a day like usual, kids lose 300 hairs a day. The hair loss may not be noticeable or there may be bald patches on the scalp.90003 90002 Telogen effluvium usually happens after an extreme event, such as: 90003 90034 90035 very high fever 90036 90035 surgery 90036 90035 intense emotional trauma, such as the death of a loved one 90036 90035 severe injury 90036 90041 90002 Once the event has passed, the child’s hair should grow back. Full regrowth can take six months to a year. 90003 90012 Nutritional deficiency 90013 90002 Good nutrition is essential for a healthy body. When kids do not get enough vitamins, minerals, and protein, their hair can fall out.Hair loss can be a sign of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, as well as a side effect of a low-protein vegetarian or vegan diet. 90003 90002 A lack of these nutrients can contribute to hair loss: 90003 90002 Too much vitamin A can also lead to hair loss. 90003 90002 Your child’s pediatrician can suggest a healthy eating plan or prescribe a supplement to make up for the nutritional shortfall. 90003 90012 Hypothyroidism 90013 90002 The thyroid is a gland in your neck. It releases hormones that help control your body’s metabolism.90003 90002 In hypothyroidism, the thyroid does not make enough of the hormones it needs to function properly. Symptoms include: 90003 90034 90035 weight gain 90036 90035 constipation 90036 90035 tiredness 90036 90035 dry hair or hair loss all over the scalp 90036 90041 90002 Hair loss should stop when your child is treated with thyroid hormone medication. But it can take a few months for all of the hair to regrow. 90003 90012 Chemotherapy 90013 90002 Children who receive chemotherapy treatment will lose their hair.Chemotherapy is a strong medication that kills quickly dividing cells in the body — including cells in the hair roots. Once the treatment’s finished, your child’s hair should grow back. 90003 90002 Sometimes, children lose their hair for reasons that are not medical. Common causes include: 90003 90012 Newborn hair loss 90013 90002 During their first six months of life, most babies will lose the hair they were born with. The newborn hair falls out to make way for mature hair. This type of hair loss is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.90003 90012 Friction hair loss 90013 90002 Some babies lose hair in the back of their scalp because they rub their head repeatedly against the crib mattress, floor, or something else. Children outgrow this behavior as they become more mobile and start sitting and standing. Once they stop rubbing, their hair should grow back. 90003 90012 Chemicals 90013 90002 Products used to bleach, dye, perm, or straighten the hair can contain harsh chemicals that damage the hair shaft. Try to avoid using these products for young children or ask your hairstylist for recommendations on nontoxic versions made for kids.90003 90012 Blow-drying 90013 90002 Excess heat from blow-drying or straightening can also damage hair and cause it to fall out. When drying your child’s hair, use a low heat setting. Do not blow it dry every day to minimize heat exposure. 90003 90012 Hair ties 90013 90002 Pulling your child’s hair back into a tight ponytail, braid, or bun causes trauma to the hair follicles. Hair can also fall out if your child brushes or combs it too hard. Be gentle when combing and styling your child’s hair and keep ponytails and braids loose to prevent hair loss.90003 90002 Losing hair can be upsetting for anyone, at any age. But it can be especially traumatic for a child. 90003 90002 Explain to your child why the hair loss happened and how you plan to fix the problem. If it’s the result of a treatable disease, explain that their hair will grow back. 90003 90002 If it’s not reversible, find ways to conceal the hair loss. You might try a: 90003 90002 Get help managing hair loss from your child’s pediatrician, as well from as a hairstylist trained to work with kids who’ve lost their hair.If you need help paying for a wig, contact an organization such as Locks of Love or Wigs for Kids for help. 90003 90002 Counseling can also help kids cope with hair loss. Ask your pediatrician to recommend a counselor or therapist who can help talk your child through the experience. 90003 90002 Often, hair loss is not serious or life-threatening. The greatest impact is sometimes on your child’s self-esteem and emotions. 90003 90002 Treatments for hair loss in children are available but it can take some trial and error to find the right one.Work with your child’s medical team to come up with a solution that helps your child look — and feel — better. 90003.90000 Torticollis In Children: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment 90001 90002 Torticollis is a painful condition where the neck is bent to one side or slightly twisted. In most cases, the top of the head is tilted towards one side, while the chin tilts to the other side (1). Children with torticollis usually have a stiff neck and are unable to move it freely. 90003 90002 Children could get this condition, also known as wry neck, at birth or later. This can cause chronic pain in the child’s neck and can interfere in their daily activities.While pain and stiffness in the neck can be relieved through physical therapy and medication, surgery may be required in some cases. Your child’s doctor will be the best person to determine that. 90003 90002 In this post, MomJunction tells you about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for a wry neck in children. 90003 90008 Causes Of Torticollis In Children 90009 90002 Torticollis in children can be acquired, meaning it develops at a certain point due to external factors or illnesses.Sometimes, it can be congenital, which is present during the time of birth. Here are some of the causes of acquired and congenital torticollis. 90003 90012 1. Congenital torticollis 90013 90002 In congenital torticollis, a common condition in babies, the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle is shorter and tighter. Although the cause is unknown, here are a few possible reasons why that happens: 90003 90016 90017 The condition can develop in the womb due to limited space in the uterus, which makes the baby’s head to get stuck in one a certain position for some time , causing stiffness in the neck muscles (2).90018 90019 90016 90017 Abnormal development of the SCM muscle or its absence (3). 90018 90019 90016 90017 There is no substantial proof that the condition is hereditary, but some in the medical fraternity consider that as a possibility (4). 90018 90019 90016 90017 In rare cases, congenital torticollis is a result of the Klippel-Feil Syndrome, a congenital disability that results in the fusion of neck vertebrae (short neck) (5). This syndrome has other symptoms, of which torticollis is one; so, take your doctor’s opinion for a more accurate diagnosis.90018 90019 90016 90017 Congenital bone abnormalities such as fusion or segmentation anomalies in atlas and axis bones (part of the bones in the neck). 90018 90019 90016 90017 Certain syndromes such as Down syndrome, Morquio syndrome, Larsen syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and cervical spine arthritis can also cause wry neck (6). 90018 90019 90012 2. Acquired torticollis 90013 90002 Torticollis caused due to an external factor is called acquired torticollis. Given that the condition can be ‘acquired,’ several factors can result in a wry neck in children: 90003 90016 90017 Trauma to the head or neck or both.This could also include fracture and dislocation, muscle spasms, or damage to the neck muscles, especially the SCM muscle or the trapezius muscle. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Infections in the neck, head, spine, or CNS can cause torticollis. The condition could also develop due to infections in the ear or posterior pharynx. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Surgical removal of adenoids, respiratory infections, or infections in the neck’s soft tissues (7). 90018 90019 90016 90017 Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), inflammation in the neck region, spasmus nutans, and Sandifer syndrome (8).90018 90019 90016 90017 Children who have eye impairment and can not move their eyes tend to move the head, leading to tilting of the head for prolonged periods, causing neck muscle stiffness (6). 90018 90019 90016 90017 A tumor in the brain, especially in the skull or spinal cord, can be a cause. Sometimes, tumors in the posterior fossa can result in torticollis accompanied by nausea, headaches, vomiting, and other neurological symptoms. (1) 90018 90019 90002 While you can detect the presence of torticollis or wry neck by looking at the child, you will not be able to identify the exact cause of the condition.Hence, you must check with your child’s doctor to diagnose the type of torticollis, some of which can be resolved with simple exercises, whereas some need medical intervention. 90003 90002 Let us look at each type next. 90003 90002 [90073 Read: 90074 90073 Scoliosis In Children 90074] 90003 90008 Types Of Torticollis In Children 90009 90002 Torticollis occurs when the trauma or strain on the neck is severe. It can also occur due to the causes listed above, based on which the condition is divided into the following types (9).90003 90012 1. Temporary torticollis 90013 90002 This condition is temporary and would go away after a couple of days. This could be due to: 90003 90016 90017 Improper sleeping patterns and positions that strain the neck can result in pain in the neck. If the strain is too much, it can lead to stiffness of the neck and temporary torticollis. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Sometimes, your child can develop torticollis due to an infection in the ear or throat or a cold, which causes swelling of the lymph nodes.90018 90019 90012 2. Fixed torticollis 90013 90002 Sometimes, torticollis in children can be a permanent condition, because it is either congenital or acquired when the neck is irreversibly damaged due to trauma. Fixed torticollis, also known as acute torticollis, is usually caused due to a flaw in the bone structure or the muscles. It can also be a result of a tumor in the brain or the spinal cord. Babies with fixed torticollis may have a flattened or slightly tilted head. 90003 90012 3. Muscular torticollis 90013 90002 Sometimes, tight muscles on one side of your child’s neck can cause a type of fixed torticollis called muscular torticollis.The tightness of muscles prevents easy movement of the neck and even tilts the head to a side. 90003 90012 4. Cervical dystonia 90013 90002 Also known as spasmodic torticollis, cervical dystonia is a rare condition that is recurrent. Children with cervical dystonia have difficulty moving their heads to the sides and sometimes even forward or backward due to pain. However, this condition is typically found in adults between the ages of 40 and 60 (10). 90003 90002 The severity of the condition, the treatment, and the symptoms may depend on the type of torticollis in the child.But how do you know what kind of torticollis your child has? Well, watch out for the symptoms. 90003 90002 [90073 Read: 90074 90073 Nursemaid’s Elbow In Children 90074] 90003 90008 Torticollis Symptoms In Children 90009 90002 Unlike other diseases or medical conditions that are not obvious, torticollis has outward symptoms that are hard to miss. Here are the symptoms you should look for to diagnose torticollis in a child. 90003 90016 90017 The child’s head is visibly tilted to one side. 90018 90019 90016 90017 There is stiffness in the neck, accompanied by pain when your child tries to move his neck.90018 90019 90016 90017 A headache is also a symptom, although not all children complain of it. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Swelling in the neck muscles. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Your child can not move the neck beyond a certain range and in all directions. 90018 90019 90016 90017 In babies, the head may seem flattened and unbalanced. 90018 90019 90016 90017 In some types of acquired torticollis that are recurrent, the episodes may be accompanied by dizziness, nausea or vomiting and irritability (1) 90018 90019 90016 90017 In the case of congenital torticollis, you may notice a pea-sized tumor- like lump on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle in the neck.The lump usually goes away as the baby grows, or it might need surgery (11). 90018 90019 90016 90017 In some cases of early or infantile torticollis, there may be a slight delay in motor (muscular) development. However, some studies contradict this, so further investigation is needed (12) (13). 90018 90019 90002 Some of the symptoms of torticollis are subtle, which is why a medical diagnosis is necessary to find the underlying cause. Read on to find out more about it. 90003 90002 [90073 Read: 90074 90073 Fractures in Children 90074] 90003 90008 Diagnosis Of Torticollis 90009 90002 When we talk about diagnosing torticollis, we are talking about the underlying illness that has resulted in the condition.To pinpoint the reason and to treat it, your child has to undergo certain tests and procedures (9). 90003 90016 90017 A physical examination of the neck is done to check for tenderness or swelling. If there are no external signs, an investigation through diagnostic procedures is recommended. 90018 90019 90016 90017 The doctor will also check for congenital muscular anomalies by examining the shape of the head and the hip. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Neurological, visual, and ENT examinations are recommended to check for infections.90018 90019 90016 90017 The physician will suggest a cervical spine X-ray in case there is tenderness or pain in the region. 90018 90019 90016 90017 If they suspect an anomaly in the CNS or brain, then a CT scan would be recommended. 90018 90019 90016 90017 An EMG is done to detect the damaged muscles in the neck. 90018 90019 90008 Torticollis (Wry Neck) Treatment In Children 90009 90002 Torticollis can not be prevented, but there are certain treatment options available to reduce inflammation and pain.In the case of congenital torticollis, early interventions might help improve the condition. For acquired torticollis, the treatment is provided based on the cause. 90003 90002 Below are the various treatment options available for different kinds of wry neck. 90003 90012 1. Congenital torticollis 90013 90002 If your baby has wry neck by birth, then it could be improved with the below treatments. 90003 90002 90073 Physiotherapy: 90074 Congenital torticollis could be improved by stretching the neck muscles through physiotherapy.This must be started soon after the birth, preferably within a few months, for improved chances of success (14). 90003 90002 90073 TOT collar: 90074 Your doctor might prescribe using a device known as TOT collar, which stands for Tubular Orthosis for Torticollis. This is a small plastic tubing which can be placed around the baby’s neck to help straighten the neck and strengthen the neck muscles. 90003 90002 90073 Note 90074: The TOT collar should be used only when the child is awake and under supervision.It should not be used for children under the age of four months (15). 90003 90002 90073 Corrective measures: 90074 Babies with an asymmetrical head might respond well to corrective measures, such as: 90003 90016 90017 Corrective helmets and molding cups 90018 90019 90016 90017 Changing the Sleeping positions 90018 90019 90002 90073 Surgery: 90074 When the above non- surgical methods fail to provide relief, then the doctor might go for surgery to correct the shortened SCM muscle. Based on the condition of your child after the surgery, the doctor might prescribe neck braces to prevent relapse and maintain normal neck movements (16).90003 90002 Your child’s doctor is the best person to determine the course of treatment. However, as a parent, you should be able to identify the subtle early symptoms and take your baby to the doctor as soon as possible. 90003 90012 2. Acquired torticollis 90013 90002 If the problem is not congenital but acquired, there are various ways to treat it, depending on the cause: 90003 90016 90017 Traction 90018 90017 Stretching exercises 90018 90017 Heat application 90018 90017 Massaging 90018 90017 Physiotherapy 90018 90017 Neck braces 90018 90017 Your doctor might prescribe certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and inflammation if the torticollis is due to spine or musculoskeletal injury.90018 90017 Antibiotics might also be given if the wry neck is due to infection. 90018 90017 Medications to treat GERD could be prescribed if that is causing the condition (14). 90018 90019 90002 [90073 Read: 90074 90073 Jumper’s Knee In Children 90074] 90003 90008 Home Care And Remedies For Torticollis 90009 90002 Torticollis can not be treated at home, but you can certainly make the condition bearable for your child. Here are a few things you can do at home to ease the pain and discomfort that torticollis causes to your child.90003 90016 90017 Temporary torticollis goes away after a day or two of rest. So, let your child rest as much as possible. But if it persists, go to a doctor for a proper diagnosis, as delayed treatment can make the problem worse. 90018 90019 90016 90017 If your child complains of neck pain in the morning, check the place where they have slept. A lumpy, uneven pillow can aggravate neck pain. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Give your child pain medicines, such as ibuprofen, in case of acquired torticollis, which can heal any muscular discomfort.Consult a doctor before you do, though. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Warm compresses can alleviate the pain caused by a stiff neck. They loosen the neck muscles and make it easier to move the head. 90018 90019 90016 90017 A muscle relaxant might help, use it only if your doctor prescribes them. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Help your child use a neck brace to keep the head still to prevent further strain. 90018 90019 90008 Long-Term Care For Torticollis In Children 90009 90002 Health problems like torticollis can make life challenging for a child.As a parent, you can help your child manage the condition better until it is corrected through treatment. Here is how. 90003 90016 90017 The time duration needed to cure the problem is primarily based on the cause of torticollis. So, try to ease the pain and discomfort with the help of exercises and massages. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Physiotherapy may be recommended for a year or more. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Take your child on regular visits to the doctor to ensure his progress. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Try and help your child build a positive attitude towards the problem and help them cope actively.90018 90019 90002 [90073 Read: 90074 90073 Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis In Children 90074] 90003 90008 Questions To Ask Your Doctor 90009 90002 Torticollis treatment for children can be effective when you take proper care of the child at home. And to do that, you need to be aware of the condition, its severity, and what you can do to make it better for your child. Remember to ask your doctor about: 90003 90016 90017 The type of torticollis that your child has. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Home remedies to help your child move his or her neck easily, without aggravating the pain.90018 90019 90016 90017 Any changes that need to be made to the child’s bed to prevent further strain to the neck. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Any side effects of the medication prescribed. 90018 90019 90016 90017 Physiotherapy exercises that you can do at home to relieve pain. 90018 90019 90016 90017 The frequency of doctor visits and term of medication or treatments. 90018 90019 90008 Frequently Asked Questions 90009 90012 1. Is congenital torticollis common in children? 90013 90002 A retrospective cohort study found that congenital torticollis is the most common type of torticollis in infants (17).90003 90012 2. Which doctor should I consult if my child has torticollis? 90013 90002 Ask your child’s pediatrician first. They may recommend a surgeon or physiotherapist depending on the severity of the condition. 90003 90012 3. Can torticollis be prevented? 90013 90002 No. It is not possible to prevent torticollis. You can, however, try and avoid getting a stiff neck. 90003 90012 4. How long does the treatment last? 90013 90002 The duration of the treatment depends on the severity of the condition.90003 90012 5. I noticed that my child tilts her head only to the left side. Should I be worried? 90013 90002 If your child’s head is tilted constantly to one side, look for other symptoms such as neck pain or lumps, and then consult your child’s doctor. 90003 90012 6. Who is at a higher risk of getting congenital torticollis? 90013 90002 The causes of congenital torticollis are not known. However, studies found that factors such as the baby being the first-born child, multiple gestations, dystocic delivery (where the baby’s head is out, but the body is caught above the pubic bone) could contribute to the occurrence of this condition (17 ).90003 90012 7. What exercises should I make my child do to fix torticollis? 90013 90002 Please consult a physiotherapist who can recommend the right kind of neck exercises for treating torticollis in your child. 90003 90002 While most forms of torticollis can not be prevented, there are a few that you may try to avoid proactively. Also, congenital torticollis can be corrected early on in babies. So, watch out for any symptoms and signs that indicate a wry neck in the child and resort to physical therapy first.If that does not work, surgery can always help. 90003 90374 References 90375 1. Herman MJ; Torticollis in infants and children: common and unusual causes; NCBI (2006) 90376 2. What is Torticollis ?; Health in Wales 90376 3. Saira Haque, Badar Bin Bilal Shafi, Musa Kaleem; Imaging of Torticollis in Children; RadioGraphics 90376 4. Engin C, Yavuz SS, Sahin FI; Congenital muscular torticollis: is heredity a possible factor in a family with five torticollis patients in three generations ?; NCBI (1997) 90376 5.Ashok Kumar Agarwal, et al .; Klippel Feil Syndrome: A Rare Case Report; NCBI (2014) 90376 6. Torticollis (Pediatric); Columbia Doctors 90376 7. Torticollis (congenital and acquired) in children; NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Guidelines8. Bercik D, Diemer S, Westrick S, Worley S, and Suder R; Relationship Between Torticollis and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder in Infants; NCBI (2019) 90376 9. Torticollis; Seattle Children’s Hospital 90376 10. Cervical Dystonia; National Organization for Rare Disorders 90376 11.Neck Masses; Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia 90376 12. Ohman A1, Nilsson S, Lagerkvist AL, and Beckung E; Are infants with torticollis at risk of a delay in early motor milestones compared with a control group of healthy infants ?; NCBI (2009) 90376 13. Öhman A, Beckung E; Children who had congenital torticollis as infants are not at higher risk for a delay in motor development at preschool age; NCBI (2013) 90376 14. Torticollis | Treatments; Boston Children’s Hospital 90376 15. Craniofacial Society: An Overview of Torticollis; The Academy Today 90376 16.Kumar Nilesh and Srijon Mukherji; Congenital muscular torticollis; NCBI (2013) 90376 17. Amaral, Daniela M, et al .; Congenital muscular torticollis where are we today? A retrospective analysis at a tertiary hospital; Porto Biomedical JournalWas this information helpful? .