Contents
Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Overview
Congenital CMV is a viral infection passed from mother to baby during pregnancy. It can injure the developing brain and inner ear, leading to long‑term problems such as hearing loss, learning difficulties and, in severe cases, cerebral palsy. Many people reach adulthood with residual weakness, fatigue, balance issues or hearing impairment that still need active management.
At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury we focus on adults living with the consequences of congenital CMV. You’ll receive consultant‑led neurological assessment, fast laboratory and CT imaging access, plus personalised rehabilitation to maximise independence and quality of life. We also guide parents to appropriate paediatric services when needed.
Why Ongoing Care Matters — Cerebral Palsy Risk Included
- Brain injury from congenital CMV can manifest as cerebral palsy, epilepsy or cognitive change that persist into adulthood.
- Adults may experience progressive fatigue, pain, musculoskeletal imbalance or postural issues linked to childhood CP.
- Hearing loss and visual problems can worsen function and safety if not reviewed regularly.
- Cardiometabolic and stroke risk rise when mobility is limited—screening and prevention keep you healthier for longer.
Symptoms And Issues We Commonly See In Adults
- Residual limb weakness, abnormal muscle tone or gait difficulties
- Chronic pain, muscle cramps or joint stiffness from long‑standing postural strain
- Balance problems, dizziness or visual/hearing deficits
- Fatigue, “brain fog” or slower information processing
- Anxiety or low mood related to long‑term disability or uncertainty
- Social and vocational challenges requiring adaptive strategies
(If a newborn or child is affected, we coordinate referral to regional paediatric infectious‑disease and neuro‑rehabilitation teams.)
When To Seek Medical Advice
Call 01296 678 800 if you:
- Live with congenital CMV or cerebral palsy and want a fresh review of mobility, pain or fatigue
- Notice new weakness, balance loss, vision or hearing changes
- Need help with workplace adjustments, driving assessments or equipment
- Are a parent who had CMV in pregnancy and needs advice on adult follow‑up for yourself
Seek urgent care via 999 if you develop sudden facial droop, limb weakness or speech loss—possible stroke symptoms.
How We Assess And Monitor At Royal Bucks
- Consultant Neurology Assessment – full history, neurological exam and functional goal‑setting in our Neurology Service (/departments/neurology/).
- Rapid Laboratory Testing – inflammatory markers, vitamin and metabolic profiles via our Blood‑Testing Service (/diagnostics/blood-tests/), with results typically in 24 hours.
- On‑Site CT Brain or Spine – high‑resolution scans in the CT Suite (/diagnostics/ct-scanning/) to check structural change or pain causes; MRI arranged at our sister site if required.
- Hearing and Vision Pathways – swift referral to audiology/ophthalmology partners for updated aids or interventions.
- Regular Review Schedule – intervals tailored to your goals, usually every 6–12 months, or more often during intensive rehab blocks.
Adult‑Focused Treatment And Support
- Physiotherapy and Neuro‑Rehabilitation – strength, balance, gait retraining and spasticity management within our Rehabilitation Servic.
- Occupational Therapy – energy‑conservation strategies, home/workplace adaptations and assistive‑tech advice.
- Speech and Language Therapy – for communication or swallowing issues that persist into adulthood.
- Pain and Spasticity Management – medication review, botulinum toxin injections and soft‑tissue techniques via our.
- Dietetic Support – nutrition plans to manage weight, bone health and energy levels through the Dietetic Team.
- Psychology and Counselling – coping strategies for fatigue, anxiety and long‑term condition adjustment.
- Stroke and Vascular Risk Reduction – blood‑pressure, lipid and lifestyle optimisation with our Cardiology Department.
Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?
- Consultant‑delivered clinics with appointments usually within one week
- All key diagnostics—blood tests and CT imaging—on one site
- Integrated neuro‑rehab, dietetics and pain services for adults under one roof
- Clear referral pathways to paediatric specialists when families need infant/child support
- Private ensuite rooms, free parking and easy access from Oxford, Milton Keynes and London
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Treat Babies Or Children With CMV?
No. We provide adult services. We’ll signpost families to specialist paediatric centres for infant testing or therapy.
Can Cerebral Palsy Symptoms Worsen In Adulthood?
Functional demands change and muscles age; pain, fatigue or mobility issues can increase. Targeted rehab and equipment reviews help you stay active.
Is Antiviral Treatment Useful In Adults?
Antivirals are generally for symptomatic newborns. Adult care centres on symptom management, rehabilitation and vascular‑risk control.
Plan Your Next Step
Call 01296 678 800 or enquire online to book an adult congenital‑CMV review and personalised rehabilitation plan.
23 July 2025