What can parents do and the importance of communication?
As a parent of a child with Biliary Atresia, your role is incredibly important in supporting your child's health and well-being, particularly in extending the time before a liver transplant might be necessary. While medical interventions are crucial, there are several things you can do to improve your child's quality of life and manage the condition effectively:
Key Actions for Parents
Vigilant Monitoring:
Watch for Signs of Infection: As previously mentioned, being alert to signs of ascending cholangitis (e.g., fever, jaundice, poor feeding) and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Quick intervention can prevent complications and preserve liver function.
Regular Growth and Health Check-Ins: Regularly monitor your child’s growth, weight gain, and overall health. This includes ensuring they are meeting developmental milestones and adjusting nutrition as needed with the guidance of healthcare professionals.
Nutrition Management:
Optimized Diet: Continue to ensure your child’s diet is tailored to their needs, with the right types of fats and vitamins. Work closely with a dietitian to make sure your child is getting the nutrients they need to support growth and liver health.
Supplements: Administer any prescribed vitamins (A, D, E, K) and medications that may help with bile flow and absorption of nutrients.
Medication Adherence:
Preventative Antibiotics: Ensure your child is taking any prescribed antibiotics to prevent infections, particularly during the first year after the Kasai.
Potential New Treatments: Stay informed about emerging treatments that may be available in the future, and discuss with your healthcare team if any new therapies could benefit your child.