Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy reduce the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. Certain medications may cause undesirable side effects or safety hazards especially when used over a long period of time.
Surgery cannot cure CP however it can help improve mobility and reduce pain. It can also help reduce seizures, which could be life-threatening to those with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is one of the groups of non-progressive conditions that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the arms or legs. The condition is typically diagnosed early in infanthood or during infancy. It is caused by brain damage or abnormalities. The injury could have occurred within the womb or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the condition.
The first step to a diagnosis of CP is for your child's doctor to examine him or her. The doctor will evaluate the baby's muscles' tone, reflexes, and movements. They will also observe the development of your baby as time passes to determine if he or she is meeting milestones.
If a doctor suspects something is wrong, he can order an imaging test. An MRI is the most common test that uses magnetic fields and produces clear images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child that are connected to CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound which makes use of sound waves to create images of your baby's head and other organs. This test is more practical for very young babies however it might not be as helpful at diagnosing issues that are associated with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound, a doctor might recommend your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in children's spinal diseases muscles, nerves, and muscles). These specialists will provide a more accurate diagnose and create a plan for treatment for your child.
Treatment
Each child's CP is unique, and they require an individual health care plan. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists, including neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and child developmental specialist. They will form a treatment group that includes your entire family, and oversee the progress of your child.
Doctors are able to make a diagnosis of CP in light of your child's symptoms and history. They may conduct a physical exam to identify symptoms and signs of the condition, such as muscles being weak or tight as well as difficulty walking or moving, problems with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors might be able to identify that your child has CP if certain risk factors are present. For instance, if a child was born in the breech position or is having a difficult labor and delivery in which case they are more likely to develop CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher for babies younger than their gestational age. Problems during labor and birth such as infections, high fever and other conditions that hinder oxygen flow to the brain, may increase your child's chance of cerebral palsy.
Medical treatments can aid in improving your child's movements and reduce pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be administered by mouth, injected into muscles, or inject into the fluid around the spinal cord. They can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions such as epilepsy that are frequently associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
While there's no way to keep a person from developing CP that are due to genetics but you can take steps to help reduce the risk. If you are able, receive regular prenatal medical attention. Examine any health concerns prior to pregnancy. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus -- are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies who have CP tend to be slow to master the ability to sit up, roll over or crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear sloppy or relaxed. They might have high muscle tone which makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They may exhibit signs of speech difficulties or seizures or favor one side of their body.
About 75% of patients with CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Certain people have just a handful of muscles affected while others suffer from severe spasticity that affects the entire body, including their face and mouth. This kind of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia. It can cause a curved back (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisty, or quick and rapid and jerky. It could make your limbs or face look like they're in a trance, and you could drool. Some people suffering from CP have multiple forms of CP but each one is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral Palsy affects everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Some individuals with CP require minimal assistance, and others have trouble moving and must use a wheelchair. In severe cases, it can result in spastic quadriplegia.
Children with CP can benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve balance, posture and movement. Surgery may be needed to fix issues in their bones or joints. Hearing loss, fatigue, pain, and excessive drooling are all possible signs. Some people with CP develop depression, which is three to four times more common than in the general population.
Many people who have CP live in their own homes, engage in community activities and receive assistance from a personal source. They may also find work however some may have to make adjustments. People with CP tend to be prematurely old as their bodies struggle with the added stress.
Even with the most severe symptoms, those suffering from CP can lead a fulfilling and happy life. They may have a job as well as a family and friends. cerebral palsy attorney chesapeake can join support groups, which can allow them to connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Many foundations and organizations offer financial aid to families in order to ease the burden so that they can concentrate on getting the best treatment. You could be eligible for compensation if medical carelessness of a healthcare professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Take advantage of a free case review today to determine if you can be eligible.