Brain Injuries may occur before birth or during the birth process. The lack of oxygenated blood supply to the brain causes the Brain Injury, and may also affect other organs in the body.
There are three stages of Brain Injury (Stages 1 to 3). Most babies with Stage 1 injuries recover well on their own, with no long-term effects. Babies with stage 2 or 3 have a higher risk of dying, or may develop severe neurological complications.
Babies with Brain Injuries may not be able to breathe well and need ventilatory support. Lack of oxygen supply may also affect the function of other organs. Some babies may develop seizures (fits).
Babies with potential risks for Brain Injury will be attended to at birth by a specialist. If the need arises, these babies will be resuscitated immediately after birth, then transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for monitoring and supportive care.
In the NICU, brain wave patterns will be continuously monitored to determine the severity of Brain Injury and presence of seizures. Special imaging with MRI can delineate the extent of the Brain Injury.
Treatment with body cooling is available. This mode of treatment has been proven to reduce the effect of Brain Injuries in severely affected infants.
Follow-up on growth and neurological development should be done by after the baby's discharge from hospital.
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