Expert Management of Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV
Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that affect how your brain functions. They range from mild impairments, allowing those affected to live fairly normal lives, to severe disorders that require lifelong care. Examples of neurodevelopmental disorders include:
If you’re living with a neurological disorder, the doctors at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican hospitals are knowledgeable about the challenges you have to face daily. They can provide the treatment you need for neurodevelopmental disorders in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV. To learn more, find a neurologist or neurosurgeon associated with St. Rose Dominican or call (702) 616-4900.
Neurodevelopmental Disorder Symptoms
With many neurodevelopmental disorders, the signs and symptoms most often begin to show when a child is young, usually around preschool years. But in some, such as schizophrenia, symptoms may begin during the older teen years or in young adulthood.
Signs and symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders vary, depending on the specific disorder:
- Schizophrenia: Withdrawing from friends and family, disorganized thoughts, delusions, and hallucinations
- ADHD: Inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity
- Autism: Little or no eye contact, difficulty communicating, resisting touch, and self-harm
- Tourette Syndrome: Tics such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, and grunting or coughing
If you notice signs and symptoms of a neurological disorder, seek care from a neurologist at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican. Our experts will perform a full evaluation and make a diagnosis.
What Causes Neurodevelopmental Disorders?
The causes of neurodevelopmental disorders are still largely unknown. In some cases, there may be a genetic factor; a neurodevelopmental disorder may run in certain families. Researchers also believe that certain things related to or that occurred during pregnancy may play a role in the development of these disorders, such as:
- Low birth weight
- Environmental contaminants, such as lead
- Fetal exposure to smoking, alcohol, recreational drugs, or medications during pregnancy
- Premature birth
Neurodevelopmental Disorder Treatment at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican Hospitals
There are no cures for neurodevelopmental disorders, although there are effective therapeutic strategies that may help control some of the signs and symptoms, depending on the disorder. Medications are available that may reduce anxiety, agitation, tics, and hyperactivity. Behavior therapy and psychotherapy are also available to help children and parents manage behavior patterns. Older children and adults may benefit from psychotherapy, including speaking with a counselor or therapist to help learn coping techniques to control their behavior.
There is no certain way to prevent a neurodevelopmental disorder. For conditions with links to the environment and genetics, such as autism and ADHD, good prenatal care increases the chances of having a full-term, healthy baby with a reduced risk of neurological problems.
Regular wellness checkups can help you and your doctor recognize the signs and symptoms of a neurodevelopmental disorder. Early intervention is the best way to overcome the challenges from a neurodevelopmental condition.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican provides complete care for neurodevelopmental disorders in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, as part of our neurological services.