Plagiocephaly, also known as flat head syndrome, is a condition which involves irregularities with the shape of a baby’s head. This can occur due to the baby’s position in the womb, prolonged time spent in the same position, or due to a medical condition or birth defect. While plagiocephaly itself is not harmful and can be easily corrected with a helmet, there are potential side effects to consider.
What Causes Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly can be caused by a number of factors, including pressure on the baby’s head from the uterus walls, pressure from a tight birth canal, or complications from the delivery. It can also be caused by a medical condition such as torticollis, which is a tightening of the neck muscles that makes it difficult for a baby to turn their head. In some cases, a baby is born with a misshapen head due to a birth defect.
Plagiocephaly Helmets
To treat plagiocephaly, a baby may be prescribed a helmet to wear. These helmets are specially designed to shape the baby’s head and to encourage the skull to develop into a more rounded shape. The helmet is typically worn for 23 hours a day, and over the course of a few months, the shape of the baby’s head will begin to improve.
Potential Side Effects of Plagiocephaly Helmets
Skin Irritation
The most common side effect of wearing a plagiocephaly helmet is skin irritation. The helmet is designed to fit snugly, and because it is worn for such a long period of time, babies can experience skin irritation from the helmet rubbing against their skin. To prevent skin irritation, parents should use a mild, hypoallergenic soap to wash the baby’s head and helmet each day, and use a soft cloth or sponge to dry them.
Difficulty Eating or Drinking
Another possible side effect of wearing a plagiocephaly helmet is difficulty eating or drinking. The helmet can interfere with the baby’s ability to suck and swallow, which can lead to a decrease in appetite or dehydration. To prevent this, parents should make sure the baby is able to move their head freely and that the helmet is not too tight. They should also pay close attention to their baby’s eating and drinking habits to make sure they are getting enough nutrition.
Delays in Motor Skills Development
Wearing a plagiocephaly helmet can also cause delays in motor skills development. The helmet can interfere with the baby’s ability to move their head, which can prevent them from developing the necessary motor skills. To prevent this, parents should make sure the baby is able to move their head freely and that the helmet is not too tight. They should also make sure the baby is not wearing the helmet for too long each day and that they are given plenty of opportunities to move and explore.
Delays in Language Development
Wearing a plagiocephaly helmet can also cause delays in language development. The helmet can interfere with the baby’s ability to hear and understand language, which can prevent them from developing the necessary language skills. To prevent this, parents should make sure the baby is able to hear clearly and that the helmet is not too tight. They should also make sure the baby is not wearing the helmet for too long each day and that they are given plenty of opportunities to listen and observe.
Conclusion
Plagiocephaly helmets are a safe and effective way to treat flat head syndrome, but there are potential side effects to consider. The most common side effects are skin irritation, difficulty eating or drinking, delays in motor skills development, and delays in language development. To prevent these side effects, parents should make sure the baby is able to move their head freely and that the helmet is not too tight. They should also pay close attention to their baby’s eating and drinking habits, motor skills development, and language development.