Can a child with microcephaly live a normal life?

There is no standard life expectancy for microcephalic babies because outcomes depend on so many factors, and the severity of the condition can range from mild to severe. Babies with mild microcephaly may still meet the same milestones like speaking, sitting and walking as a child without the disorder.

Can a child outgrow microcephaly?

Microcephaly is a lifelong condition that has no cure. Treatment focuses on preventing or reducing problems and maximizing a child’s abilities. Children born with microcephaly need to see their healthcare team often. They will need tests to track the growth of the head.

Can microcephaly be reversed?

There is no known cure or standard treatment for microcephaly. Because microcephaly can range from mild to severe, treatment options can range as well. Babies with mild microcephaly often don’t experience any other problems besides small head size.

How do you treat microcephaly?

Generally there’s no treatment for microcephaly, but early intervention with supportive therapies, such as speech and occupational therapies, may help enhance your child’s development and improve quality of life.

What can I do to help my child with microcephaly?

Treatment. Treatment focuses on ways to manage your child’s condition. Early childhood intervention programs that include speech, physical and occupational therapy may help your child strengthen abilities. Your doctor might recommend medication for certain complications of microcephaly, such as seizures or hyperactivity.

How is microcephaly different from other birth defects?

Microcephaly can be an isolated condition, meaning that it can occur with no other major birth defects, or it can occur in combination with other major birth defects. What is severe microcephaly? Severe microcephaly is a more serious, extreme form of this condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than expected.

Are there copyright restrictions on pictures of babies with microcephaly?

Babies with microcephaly often have smaller brains that might not have developed properly. The images are in the public domain and thus free of any copyright restrictions.

What are the emotions when you find out your child has microcephaly?

When you learn your child has microcephaly, your emotions might include anger, fear, worry, sorrow and guilt. You may not know what to expect, and you may worry about your child’s future.