Medications For Cerebral Palsy

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

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

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a grouping of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles in the legs or arms. The condition can be seen in infancy or early childhood and is caused by a defect or an abnormality inside the brain. The injury could have occurred while the baby was still in the womb, or shortly after birth, but doctors aren't always able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The first step in making diagnosing CP is the doctor who treats your child to examine him or her. The doctor will administer the baby a test to check his or her muscle tone and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also monitor your baby's progress over time to determine if he is meeting milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is not right, he could decide to conduct an imaging test. The most frequent test is an MRI which makes use of magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the brain of your baby and any structures that are within it. The MRI can detect changes related to CP in the brain of your child. An ultrasound test is another option. It uses sound waves to create images of the organs and brains of your child. This test is more suitable for very young infants however it might not be as accurate in identifying the presence of CP-related issues.

In addition to an MRI or ultrasound, doctors may recommend your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in children's spinal diseases, nerves, and muscles). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and formulate a plan of treatment for your child.

Treatment

Every child's CP is unique, lawyers and they require an individual health care plan. Your family might work with an expert team, which includes an neurologist and neurosurgeon for children as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These 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 background. They may also conduct a physical examination to identify symptoms and signs of the condition, like muscles being weak or tight as well as difficulty walking or moving and speech, difficulties with intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.

In some instances, doctors may be able to determine that your child is likely to develop CP when they identify specific risk factors. For example, if your child was born in the breech position or suffers from an uneasy labor and birth or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to have CP. Babies that are small for their gestational age also have higher risks. Complications during labor and delivery, including infections, Lawyers a high fever, and other conditions that can hinder the flow of oxygen to the brain, can increase the risk of cerebral palsy.

The medication can help your child improve their mobility and reduce stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles, or infused into the spinal fluid around your cord. The medications can also be used to treat seizures as well as other conditions such as epilepsy that are typically associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

You can reduce the chance of CP by taking steps to lower your genetic risk. Get regular prenatal care and address health issues prior to becoming pregnant, if you can. Also, be up to current on vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella -- are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies who have CP are typically slow to learn how to sit, roll over, crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear relaxed or floppy. They could also have high muscle tone, which makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They may show signs of speech problems or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.

Around 75% of those who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Some have only a few affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects their entire muscles including those on their mouth and face. This kind of CP is called spastic hemiplegia, and it can cause a curved spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP that results in movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and fast and jerky. It can make your legs or face look like they're flailing around, and it can cause you to get a little drooling. Some people with CP may have more than one type of CP. Each type is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy affects people in different ways, from mild to severe. Some people suffering from CP require minimal assistance, while others are unable to move and must use a wheelchair. The most severe cases can lead to a total body paralysis known as spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movement. They might also need surgery to correct issues with their bones or joints. Hearing loss and fatigue, as well as pain and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Some people with CP suffer from depression which is three to four times more frequent than the general population.

Many people who have CP live in their homes, take part in community activities and receive individual assistance. Some may require accommodations, but they can find employment. People with CP often face premature ageing due to their bodies struggling to handle the extra stress and strain.

Even with severe symptoms, the person suffering from CP can lead a happy and fulfilled life. They may have a family, friends and careers. They can also join support groups which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Many foundations and associations offer financial aid to families to alleviate the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving the best care possible. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused by negligence on the part of the healthcare professional who treated them you could be entitled to compensation. Find out if you're eligible for a complimentary review of your case today.