Visible Hemangiomas and Stigma
Hemangiomas are bright red, rubbery bumps of skin that are caused by a concentration of extra blood vessels. They are classified medically as a vascular tumor due to their makeup, and most are completely harmless. They can be present at birth or develop within a baby’s first week or two of life outside the womb. They typically grow for a period of time and then reduce in size until finally disappearing. Many hemangiomas have completely vanished by age 10.
When a hemangioma does not interfere with vision, breathing or other bodily functions, the routine treatment is to simply observe it and leave it alone to grow and shrink away naturally. Those hemangiomas that do interfere with vital body processes or threaten to do so as they grow can be treated. Therapies your specialist may recommend will attempt to shrink the hemangioma or, in some cases, completely remove it.
Many parents and children are concerned with the visible aspect of a hemangioma. The red, rubbery growths can often be quite noticeable and are most often found on visible areas of the body, such as the face, scalp, chest or back. A child may grow to have emotional trauma due to a visible hemangioma and how other children perceive it. Children can be cruel to others with conditions that make them stand out or appear unusual.
Compassionate Care and Understanding for Hemangiomas
Dr. Gregory Levitin at The Vascular Birthmark Center knows the pain and emotional struggles you feel. One of his own daughters was born with a large hemangioma, and his personal experience led him to choose this career to help others in similar circumstances. He fully understands your dilemma and your child’s concerns.
Dr. Levitin and his team are pleased to explain the options for treating visible hemangiomas or those that pose problems for bodily processes. Schedule a confidential consultation at The Vascular Birthmark Center today and learn more about medical and emotional support we can provide for you and your child.
