Vitamin E Given To Premature Infants To Prevent
Introduction
Premature infants, also known as preemies, are born before the 37th week of pregnancy. These infants are at a higher risk of developing health complications than full-term infants due to their underdeveloped organs and systems. One of the health complications that premature infants can experience is a condition called retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). ROP is a disease that affects the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to blindness. Vitamin E has been shown to be effective in preventing ROP in premature infants.
What is ROP?
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease that affects the blood vessels in the retina. The retina is the part of the eye that detects light and sends signals to the brain to create visual images. In premature infants, the blood vessels in the retina may not develop fully, which can lead to abnormal growth and scarring. This can cause the retina to detach from the back of the eye, leading to blindness.
How is ROP Treated?
If ROP is detected early, it can be treated with laser therapy or cryotherapy. These treatments help to stop the abnormal blood vessel growth and prevent them from causing further damage to the retina. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reattach the retina.
Preventing ROP with Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that has been shown to be effective in preventing ROP in premature infants. Antioxidants are substances that protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells, leading to a variety of health problems.
How Does Vitamin E Prevent ROP?
Studies have shown that premature infants who are given vitamin E supplements are less likely to develop ROP than those who are not given vitamin E. Vitamin E helps to protect the fragile blood vessels in the retina by reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. By reducing oxidative stress, vitamin E helps to prevent the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina that can lead to ROP.
Recommended Dosages of Vitamin E
The recommended dosage of vitamin E for premature infants varies depending on their gestational age and weight. In general, premature infants who weigh less than 1500 grams should receive 15-30 IU of vitamin E per day. Infants who weigh more than 1500 grams should receive 30-75 IU of vitamin E per day.
Side Effects of Vitamin E
Vitamin E is generally considered safe for premature infants when given in recommended dosages. However, high doses of vitamin E can cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps. In rare cases, high doses of vitamin E can lead to bleeding disorders.
Conclusion
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a serious health condition that affects premature infants. Vitamin E has been shown to be effective in preventing ROP by reducing oxidative stress and protecting the fragile blood vessels in the retina. Premature infants who are at risk of developing ROP should be given vitamin E supplements in recommended dosages to help prevent this condition.