Spina bifida is a birth defect where the spine and spinal cord do not form properly. There are varying levels of severity, from spina bifida occulta where the defect is hidden and has no effects, to more severe cases where parts of the spinal cord and nerves bulge out from openings in the spine. This can cause problems like paralysis, loss of bladder and bowel control, and mental disabilities. Surgery is often needed right after birth to repair damage, and lifelong care involves catheterization, leg braces, and physical/mental therapy. People can help by volunteering for fundraising and awareness events.

1. Spina Bifida Violette Challe Holley HI Period 2 April 7, 2010

2. What is Spina Bifida? In spina bifida occulta, or hidden spina bifida, the vertebrae fail to completely enclose the spinal cord, but the rest is normal in form and is covered by the skin of the back. This form of the defect has no effect on body functions and may go undetected for life, but normal Spina Bifida congenital cleft of the vertebral column, a form of neural tube defect. (“spina bifida occulta." Encyclopedia Britannica.)

3. Symptoms. In the mildest form the only evidence of Spina Bifida is that one or two bones in the spine fail to form right, If several vertebrae are involved, the spinal cord can bulge outward, forming a ball-like mass in this region. Additional complications may result in fluid in the brain causing a variety of other mental, behavior and physical problems. (Hosick, Howard L. "Spina bifida.“)

4. Long Term Effects The long term effects are; loss of sensation, paralysis, mental retardation, permanent loss of bowel and bladder control, seizers and weakness. (Watson, Stephanie. "Spina Bifida.“)

5. Curing and Care. Often times surgery is performed within twenty-four to forty-eight hours of birth to close any openings in the child’s lower back and reconstruct the spine and other tissues in the area. Problems with feet and legs may also be dealt with surgically. If there is fluid in the child’s brain it can be drained. Bladder and bowel function can be regulated, by catheterization. Eventually, prosthetic devices may be fitted to assist the child’s movement. Mental health and physical therapy experts can also help with learning disabilities, physical therapy, and emotional adjustments. (Hosick, Howard L. "Spina bifida.“)

6. How can I help? You can help by volunteering, and help with cure walks and fundraising. Try to remember they’re people too, don’t gawk and stare treat them as you would like to be treated.

7. Works Cited &quot;spina bifida occulta.&quot; Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online . Encyclopædia Britannica, 2011. Web. 07 Apr. 2011. < http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/560027/spina-bifida-occulta >. H osick, Howard L. &quot;Spina bifida.&quot; Magill’s Medical Guide, Sixth Edition . Ed. Tracy Irons-Georges, 6th ed. 6 vols. Pasadena, Calif.: Salem Press, 2010. Salem Health Web. 07 Apr. 2011. Watson, Stephanie. &quot;Spina Bifida.&quot; Teen Health and Wellness. Rosen, 2011. Web. 7 Apr. 2011. <http://www.teenhealthandwellness.com/article/433/spina-bifida>.

8. Photo Credits http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/images/ency/fullsize/19087.jpg http://content.revolutionhealth.com/contentimages/nr55552056.jpg http://www.childrensmemorial.org/depts/fetalhealth/images/Spina-Bifida_External_s.gif http://www.rileykids.org/uploads/images/AlexisAllen.jpg http://blog.cornerstorkbabygifts.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/boy-in-wheelchair.jpg