Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications can help people with cerebral paralysis to reduce muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Certain medicines may cause undesirable side effects or safety hazards, particularly when used long-term.

Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can help improve mobility and reduce pain. It can also reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening to people with CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is one of the groups of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the arms and legs. The condition is present in infants or early childhood and is caused by a defect or an abnormality within the brain. The injury could have occurred within the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not know the exact reason behind the condition.

The first step in making diagnosing CP is for your child's doctor to examine him or her. The doctor will conduct baby a test to determine the strength of his or her muscles and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also monitor your baby's progress over time to determine if he's in line with milestones.

If a doctor suspects something is wrong, he can ask for an imaging test. An MRI is the most common test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce clear images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes related to CP in the brain of your child. An ultrasound is another option. It makes use of sound waves to create images of the brain and organs in your child's. This test is simpler for infants with very little development however it might not be as accurate in identifying the presence of CP-related issues.

A doctor could refer your child, in addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has received specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists will provide a more accurate diagnose and formulate a plan of treatment for your child.

Treatment

Each child's CP is different, and they require an individual health care plan. Your family could work with an expert team, which includes a pediatric neurosurgeon and a neurosurgeon along with physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. The experts will form a treatment team that includes your entire family, and oversee the development of your child.

Doctors can diagnose CP on the basis of your child's symptoms and their medical history. They may also conduct physical examinations to look for symptoms of the condition. These include muscle weakness and tightness and difficulty walking or moving in a straight line, speech and intelligence issues, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can be able to identify that your child has CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. For instance, if a child is born in the breech position or suffers from difficulties in labor Cerebral Palsy Lawyer and delivery and is more likely to develop CP. Babies who are small for their gestational years also face greater risk. Problems during labor and birth, including infections, a high fever and other conditions that hinder the flow of blood to the brain, can increase your child's risk of developing Cerebral Palsy Lawyer palsy.

The medicines can help your child move better and reduce stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be taken through the mouth or injected into muscles or infused into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. They can be used to treat seizures and other disorders like epilepsy, which are often associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

While there's no way to stop the majority of cases of CP, which are related to genetics but you can take steps to reduce the risk. If you are able, receive regular prenatal treatment. Make sure you address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Also, keep up to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- such as rubella and cytomegalovirus are associated with an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP are usually slow to learn to sit, roll over or crawl and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear sluggish or floppy. They could also have high muscle tone which causes their bodies to feel stiff and rigid. They may show signs of speech problems or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.

About 75% of patients with CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Certain people have just some muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity that affects their entire body, including their mouth and face. This kind of CP known as spastic hemoplegia can result in a curved back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is another common type of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and jerky. You may drool and your face or limbs may appear as if they are wobbling. Some people who suffer from CP have multiple forms of CP however, each type is different.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be mild or severe. Some individuals with CP require little assistance, and others have trouble moving and must use a wheelchair. In severe cases, CP may result in full-body paralysis, referred to as spastic quadriplegia.

Children suffering from CP might benefit from speech, physical and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movement. Surgery is sometimes required to correct issues with their joints or bones. Hearing loss, fatigue, pain, and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Certain people with CP develop depression which is 3 to 4 times more frequent than the general population.

Many people with CP live at home, are involved in community activities and receive personal assistance. They can also find jobs but some may have to make accommodations. Those with CP tend to experience premature ageing due to their bodies struggling to cope with extra stress and strain.

A person with CP can live a fulfilled life even if they have severe symptoms. They can pursue a career as well as a family and friends. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with other people who have CP and find local resources. Many organizations and foundations offer families financial assistance in order to alleviate the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving the best care possible. If your child's cerebral palsy was triggered by negligence on the part of an healthcare professional You may be qualified for compensation. Find out if eligible for a complimentary review of your case today.