How Do You Diagnose Microcephaly?
If at birth your newborn presents with a small head circumference, a receding forehead, and large ears and nose, he may have Microcephaly, a neurological disorder. In addition to a small head, babies with Microcephaly can have a small brain and mental retardation. The varied causes include hereditary, exposure to harmful substances, drug use, improper nourishment or vitamin intake. To get a diagnosis of Microcephaly, follow these steps. Have your OB/GYN detect Microcephaly with a prenatal ultrasound. Often, this condition doesn’t present itself until the third trimester or until after birth. Tell your pediatrician if you notice early symptoms, such as a small, slowly growing head, increasingly spastic arm and leg movements, seizures, low appetite, a high-pitched cry or developmental and mental delays. Inform your pediatrician of your family’s medical history, including any incidences of Microcephaly or other health problems. Get a head circumference measurement. Your pediatrician compa
