Neurological disorders

Evidence  

https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2019/january%E2%80%93february/understanding-long-term-neurodevelopmental-outcome 

Ravisha Srinivas Jois   

Very preterm infants have a higher risk of cerebral palsy, cognitive delay, deafness and blindness, and autism spectrum disorder when compared with term controls. The presence of Grade 3 or 4 intraventricular haemorrhage or necrotising enterocolitis increased the risk of cerebral palsy, while magnesium sulphate for threatened preterm labour decreased the risk in the surviving neonate. Most of the neurodevelopmental conditions can be diagnosed in early childhood through regular follow-up. 

https://www.who.int/news/item/14-03-2024-over-1-in-3-people-affected-by-neurological-conditions--the-leading-cause-of-illness-and-disability-worldwide 

Education  

What is a neurological disorder? 
A neurological disorder happens when there is a problem with the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. These problems can affect how a child moves, talks, thinks, feels, or behaves. 

How does the brain develop? 

• The brain starts to grow before a baby is born. 

• Most brain cells are made before birth, but they keep making connections as the baby grows. 

• The brain has: 

• Grey matter – the brain’s “thinking part” made of brain cells. 

• White matter – the “wires” (axons) that carry signals, covered with a protective layer called myelin. 

What are the symptoms? 
Symptoms depend on which part of the brain or nerves is affected. They may include: 

• Problems with movement or balance 

• Trouble talking, listening, or understanding 

• Vision or hearing problems 

• Difficulties with learning, memory, or attention 

• Changes in behaviour or emotions

Some conditions mainly affect movement (like cerebral palsy), while others affect behaviour (like ADHD). 

What causes neurological disorders? 
Neurological disorders can happen: 

• Before birth (congenital): from genetic problems, brain malformations, or metabolic conditions. 

• During pregnancy or birth: from infections, lack of oxygen, toxins or prematurity 

• After birth: lack of oxygen, lack of perfusion, inflammation, brain injury, from infections (like meningitis), injuries, tumours, immune problems, or exposure to harmful substances. 

Empowerment 

Getting help early is very important, as it gives your child the best chance to grow, learn and develop. You are an important part of your child’s care team and while doctors and therapists will guide the treatment, your love and daily support make the biggest difference. Every child is unique and treatment is designed to meet your child’s individual needs. This may include physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or medicine. 

It can help to keep track of your child’s progress and celebrate even the smallest milestones, such as new movements, sounds, or words. These small steps show how your child is learning and growing. Caring for a child with extra needs can be challenging at times, so it is also important to look after yourself. Asking for support from family, friends and parent groups can make the journey easier. 

Useful Links  

Brain Foundation Australia 

https://brainfoundation.org.au/ 

Brain Wave Australia 

https://brainwave.org.au/ 

Raising Children 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/neurodiversity-neurodivergence-guide-for-families 

Panda - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia 

https://panda.org.au/ 

Carer Gateway –support for parents caring for a child with health or disability needs. 

https://www.carergateway.gov.au 

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