Dushyant Verma - Spina Bifida Types, Treatments, and Symptoms
                     
Dushyant Verma Shillong - Spina bifida is a congenital 
birth defect that affects the development of the spine 
and spinal cord. The condition occurs when the neural 
tube, which develops into the brain and spinal cord, 
does not close properly during early fetal development. 
As a result, the spinal cord and its surrounding 
structures do not develop properly, leading to various 
types of spina bifida. 
 
Dushyant Verma Maharani Bagh says, There are three 
main types of spina bifida: spina bifida occulta, 
meningocele, and myelomeningocele. 
Spina Bifida Occulta: This is the mildest form of spina bifida 
and often goes undiagnosed. In this type, there is a small 
gap in the spine, but the spinal cord and its surrounding 
structures remain in place. People with spina bifida occulta 
may not experience any symptoms or complications. 
 
Meningocele: This is a rare type of spina bifida where the 
spinal cord develops normally, but the protective membrane 
surrounding it (meninges) protrudes through the gap in the 
spine. The meninges form a sac filled with cerebrospinal 
fluid, which can be surgically removed without damaging the 
spinal cord. People with meningocele may experience mild 
to moderate symptoms, such as weakness or numbness in 
the legs. 
Myelomeningocele: Dushyant Verma Southern Avenue says, 
This is the most severe form of spina bifida and occurs when 
the spinal cord and its surrounding structures protrude 
through the gap in the spine. This can cause significant damage 
to the spinal cord and may result in paralysis, bladder and 
bowel problems, and other complications. People with 
myelomeningocele require surgery soon after birth to repair 
the gap in the spine and prevent further damage. 
 
The exact cause of spina bifida is not known, but it is believed 
to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 
Factors that may increase the risk of spina bifida include a 
family history of the condition, low intake of folic acid during 
pregnancy, and exposure to certain chemicals and medications. 
Symptoms:  
Dushyant Verma says, Symptoms of spina bifida vary depending on the 
type and severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include: 
A gap or opening in the spine 
Weakness or numbness in the legs 
Bladder and bowel problems 
Abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis) 
Hydrocephalus (accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain) 
Treatment :
According to Dushyant Verma Southern Avenue, Treatment for spina 
bifida depends on the type and severity of the condition. In mild 
cases, no treatment may be necessary, and people with spina bifida 
occulta may not experience any symptoms or complications. In more 
severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the gap in the spine 
and prevent further damage to the spinal cord.  
Other treatments for spina bifida may include physical 
therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices, such 
as braces and wheelchairs. People with bladder and 
bowel problems may benefit from medications or surgery 
to improve their condition. In some cases, surgery may be 
necessary to correct scoliosis or hydrocephalus. 
 
Living with spina bifida can be challenging, but with 
proper medical care and support, many people with the 
condition can lead full and active lives. It is important for 
people with spina bifida to work closely with their 
healthcare providers to manage their symptoms and 
prevent complications.