Neurology - NeuroJourney
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Neurology

The brain and nervous system in typical children work together, but in children with neurological disorders they do not communicate properly. Miscommunication between the brain and other body systems might affect ability to walk and to move bowels, and produce or worsen seizure activity, behavior changes, dementia, sleep disruption, cognitive deficits and autonomic dysregulation (dysautonomia), which is disruption of the nerves that control certain automatic body functions (like breathing or digestion). Neurological problems can worsen during an acute illness or because of chronic issues. Because of this, many neurological issues appear to ebb and flow, and can present in varied ways. Neurological issues can be managed or even improved with medical interventions, but they generally cannot be cured.

Your Team:

Complex Care Clinician

An interdisciplinary specialist who helps manage the medical, social and emotional challenges of complex and/or long-term care.

Neuro-ophthalmologist

A specialist for visual symptoms or loss resulting from brain diseases.

Neurologist

A specialist in the management and treatment of neurological conditions, or problems with the nervous system.

Occupational Therapist

A therapist who treats through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help patients develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

Palliative Care Clinician

A specialist whose aim is to improve the quality of life of their patients over the course of their illness regardless of stage, by relieving pain and other symptoms of that illness.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist

A medical specialist in rehabilitation with the goal of restoring and enhancing functional ability and improving quality of life. See Orthotist

Physical Therapist

A specialist in the treatment of disease or injury by means of exercise to improve movement and manage pain.

Primary Physician

A medical professional who practices general medicine.

Your child’s primary physician can assess for problems that worsen disorders. A neurologist and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist can recommend medications and interventions to improve these problems. A neuro-ophthalmologist will assess for and treat visual problems related to the nervous system. Physical and occupational therapists will guide and recommend exercises and stretching. Complex care and palliative care clinicians can help you coordinate between specialists and help guide your care goals.

Adapting to Diagnosis

Collecting information, care and support as issues emerge for your child and your journey begins.

Present in Some Children

Clonus

Clonus is an involuntary shaking or rhythmic muscle contraction. Clonus can be observed throughout the body, but is most commonly seen in the biceps, triceps, patella, and ankle regions. Spasticity often occurs with clonus.

Delirium

Delirium is an acute alteration in brain functioning that results in temporary changes in a child’s behaviors. These changes may be due to a problem such as an infection, seizures, or even just medical stress. Delirium may be seen during a hospitalization or after a procedure, or when there are other significant changes in routine or setting. Children who have difficulty with sensory input, such as low vision, are particularly at risk because they cannot get cues about their environment and may become disoriented. The medical team will assess for problems that can cause or worsen or appear to be delirium, and may suggest medications that would help.