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Extreme prematurity VLBW
Overview
“Extreme prematurity” (birth before 28 weeks) and “very‑low birth weight” (under 1,500 g) can leave lifelong effects—motor difficulties, fatigue, attention problems, cardiometabolic risk and anxiety are all more common in adulthood. While neonatal care is long behind you, targeted assessment and rehabilitation can still boost function, health and independence.
At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury we work with adults who were born extremely premature or VLBW. You’ll receive consultant‑led neurological assessment, fast blood and imaging tests and a tailored rehabilitation plan. (We do not provide neonatal or paediatric services; but we can signpost families to appropriate centres.)
Why Ongoing Care Matters
- Higher rates of cerebral palsy, coordination disorder and subtle mobility issues can emerge or worsen with age.
- Adults born very small have increased risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease—early screening prevents stroke and heart attack.
- Chronic fatigue, breathlessness (from bronchopulmonary dysplasia) and anxiety/depression may limit work and social life.
- Hearing or vision problems from infancy can still impact driving, learning and employment if not reviewed.
- Proactive rehab prevents secondary pain, joint strain and de‑conditioning.
Symptoms And Challenges You Might Notice Now
- Stiffness, weakness or poor balance; trips or falls on uneven ground
- Fine‑motor difficulties, handwriting fatigue or hand tremor
- Exercise intolerance, wheeze or frequent chest infections
- Difficulty concentrating for long periods, “brain fog” or executive‑function issues
- Persistent fatigue, sleep problems or low mood
- Short stature, low bone density or weight‑management challenges
- Hearing or visual deficits that affect communication and safety
When To Seek Medical Advice
Call 01296 678 800 if you:
- Have mobility, balance or pain issues linked to childhood CP or developmental delay
- Notice new breathlessness, palpitations or high blood‑pressure readings
- Struggle with work demands, memory or planning and need occupational strategies
- Want a structured exercise and nutrition plan that accounts for your history
Seek urgent help via 999 for sudden chest pain, facial droop, limb weakness or speech loss (possible stroke or heart event).
How We Assess And Monitor At Royal Bucks
- Consultant Neurology/Medical Review – detailed birth and developmental history, current symptoms and functional goals.
- Rapid Laboratory Testing – metabolic profile, HbA1c, lipids, vitamin D and inflammatory markers via our Blood‑Testing Service, typically back within 24 hours.
- On‑Site CT (and MRI via Sister Site) – brain or spine imaging in our CT Suite if pain, weakness or headaches require clarification.
- Cardio‑Metabolic Screening – blood pressure profiling, ECG and cardiology referral when needed through our Cardiology Department.
- Respiratory Review (If Indicated) – lung‑function testing and sleep‑apnoea screening arranged for those with chronic lung disease.
- Regular Follow‑Up – intervals tailored to goals; typically every 6–12 months or during intensive rehab blocks.
Adult‑Focused Treatment And Support
- Physiotherapy & Neuro‑Rehabilitation – strength, balance, gait re‑education, spasticity management and posture work via our Rehabilitation Service.
- Occupational Therapy – energy conservation, workplace adaptations, driving assessments and assistive‑tech advice.
- Speech & Language Therapy – for residual speech, swallowing or cognitive‑communication issues.
- Psychology & Neuropsychology – strategies for attention, memory, fatigue pacing and mood support.
- Dietetic Guidance – Mediterranean‑style plans, weight management and bone‑health optimisation with our Dietetic Team.
- Pain & Spasticity Clinics – medication review, botulinum toxin injections and soft‑tissue techniques through our Pain‑Management Team.
- Lifestyle & Vascular‑Risk Coaching – smoking cessation, graded exercise and sleep hygiene to cut long‑term stroke and heart‑disease risk.
Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?
- Consultant‑delivered clinics with appointments usually within one week
- All core diagnostics—bloods, CT imaging, cardiology input—on one site
- Award‑winning neuro‑rehabilitation centre for adults, with therapy gym and technology‑assisted training
- Clear referral pathways to paediatric/young‑adult specialists if family members need them
- Private ensuite rooms, free parking and easy access from Oxford, Milton Keynes and London
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Treat Babies Or Children?
No. Our services are for adults. We can signpost families to neonatal follow‑up and paediatric rehab services.
Can Mobility Or Fatigue Worsen As I Get Older?
Yes—muscle imbalance and joint wear can increase symptoms. Regular review and updated exercise plans help you stay active.
Is My Stroke Risk Really Higher?
Adults born very preterm or VLBW can have higher blood pressure and metabolic risk. Screening and early lifestyle changes keep that risk low.
Take Charge Of Long‑Term Health After Prematurity
Call 01296 678 800 or enquire online to book an assessment and personalised rehabilitation plan.
23 July 2025