Raising Awareness for HIE

Before our daughters birth, I had no idea was HIE was. In fact, I have never even heard that term before. Too be honest with you, I wish that was still true. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Now I want to share with others what this terms mean, in hopes to help educate others.

One of many of our daughters diagnoses is HIE. Below I am going to do a Q&A style article. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. I will do my best to get them answered. I am not a doctor, I am just a mother who has spent numerous uncountable hours researching. With that being said, let’s begin.

What does HIE stand for?

HIE stands for Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

What is HIE?

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of newborn brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation and limited blood flow.

Are there any other medical terms for HIE?

Yes, other terms used for HIE are; birth asphyxia, perinatal asphyxia, and neonatal encephalopathy.

Is there a cure for HIE?

No, once there is permanent brain damage, there is no cure. However, there are many therapies that can improve the symptoms and functions in those diagnosed with HIE.

What are the long term effects of HIE on children?

Children with HIE may have physical and/or cognitive delays or disabilities, depending on where that damage is in their brain. You may not know exactly what has been affected until they are older, and start to miss their developmental milestones. When that happens than the children are diagnosed with related conditions, such as the following:

• Cerebral Palsy
• I/DD (Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities)
• Learning Disabilities
• Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders
• Speech Delays and Language Disorders
• Behavioral and Emotional Disorders
• Hearing and Vision Loss
• Nutritional Issues
• Orthopedic Conditions
• Respiratory Conditions
• Sensory Processing Issues

Are any of the above conditions curable?

Many of the conditions listed above aren’t curable, but you can greatly improve a child’s quality of life with the right therapies.

What therapies can help?

Most of your conventional therapies are proven to be beneficial in helping a child improve his function and mobility. Some of the main therapies are as followed:

• Speech Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Equestrian Therapy
• Aquatic Therapy
• Nutrition Therapy (yes, that is a real thing)

Is there anything else parents can try that may help?

Yes, there are many non-conventional therapies that could be beneficial. A few of those therapies I will list here:

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
• Stem Cell Therapy
• Low Level Laser Therapy
• ABM Therapy
• Craniosacral Therapy
• Brain Therapy

HIE is not curable, but parents there is still some amazing news. God has designed our brains to do some amazing things. Our brains are so complex, and so unique. Yes, the damage is there but, while your child is growing YOU have the chance to help their brain reroute and build new pathways. What you do now while your child is young, will make all the difference in their quality of life. I know from personal experience.

Sources

Wu, Y. (n.d.). Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatments of neonatal encephalopathy. Retrieved March 29, 2019, from http://www.uptodate.com/contents/clinical-features-diagnosis-and-treatments-of-neonatal-encephalopathy.

Disclaimer

I am not a medical professional. The above statements on non-conventional therapies, are just to share with you what other options are available. As always it is recommended that you talk with your child doctors first, before starting any types of therapies or supplements.