5 Pediatric Neurological Disorders In Children Under The Age Of 5

While these disorders pose several challenges, early intervention and diagnosis can help children live healthy lives and meet developmental milestones.

The formative years of a child’s life are crucial. They are focused mainly on their growth, development and lifelong wellness. It should be noted that among all other organs essential for a child’s development, the nervous system — including the spinal cord, brain, and nerves — plays a major role. It is responsible for the coordination between physical processes and cognitive and motor abilities. Some children, however, develop neurological challenges because of brain, nervous system, and/or muscle cell anomalies, says Dr Sonam Kothari, founder of Butterfly Learning and expert in clinical neurosciences (pediatric neurology).

According to Dr Kothari, these are some of the common paediatric neurological disorders seen in children under the age of five, along with their available treatment options.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

It is a developmental condition that affects behaviour, social interaction and communication in people. Usually, it is caused by genetic and environmental factors. Carers can help children deal with ASD through behavioural treatment, speech therapy and educational assistance to enable them to achieve better outcomes.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy can impact children’s balance, posture and movement. It is a common physical disability that results from improper brain development. Every individual confronts its symptoms differently. While some of them may have trouble eating or maintaining eye-muscle balance, others may have issues with walking or sitting. Parents can provide their children with early intervention and feeding therapy programs to make them learn how to communicate and walk, the doctor says, adding that they can also opt for physical therapy that involves stretching and strengthening exercises.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

This neurological condition is caused by impulsivity, recklessness and trouble concentrating, says the expert. “ADHD can have an enormous effect on a child’s general well-being, social relationships and academic success. Parents can provide children with behavioural therapy and seek professional help to treat this disorder,” she adds.

Down Syndrome

The development of an extra pair of chromosome 21 causes Down syndrome in children. It can be challenging for children, affecting how their bodies and brains develop. It can cause both physical and mental difficulties, including delay in speech and self-care skills. “They may also exhibit physical signs like a short neck, small ears, hands and feet, flat nose bridge, etc.,” says Dr Kothari.

According to the doctor, this syndrome can also be diagnosed in children during pregnancy. After the child is born, medical professionals can guide parents with certain therapies on the basis of intellectual and physical strengths, weaknesses and needs.

Dyslexia

A learning impairment, dyslexia is characterised by reading issues, failing to detect speech, sounds, etc. Children find it difficult to connect letters and words. This syndrome is often caused by variations in brain regions that are responsible for language processing. Usually, the symptoms are visible in children when they turn five or start going to school. There currently are no medications available to treat dyslexia, but educational interventions can help children with learning and reading, the doctor explains.