Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy decrease muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Certain medications may cause undesirable adverse effects or risk to your safety particularly when used for long periods of time.

Surgery cannot cure CP however it can improve a person's mobility and reduce pain. It may also help to reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening for those who suffer from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a grouping of non-progressive conditions that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the arms or legs. The condition is typically diagnosed in the early stages of childhood or even in the infant stage and 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 know the exact cause.

The first step in establishing a diagnosis of CP is that your child's doctor examine him or her. The doctor will administer the baby a physical test to assess the tone of his or her muscles and reflexes as well as movements. They will also keep track of your baby's growth over time to determine whether he or she is in line with milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, they may decide to conduct an imaging test. An MRI is the most popular test, which utilizes magnetic fields to create detailed images of your baby’s brain. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another alternative is an ultrasound which uses sound waves to create images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is a lot easier for infants with very little development however it may not be as effective in detecting issues related to CP.

A doctor may send your child, addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists can offer a more accurate diagnose and create a plan for treatment for your child.

Treatment

Every child has a different CP and each requires a unique treatment plan. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists that include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist as well as a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and child developmental specialist. The experts will create a treatment team that includes your entire family and will oversee the development of your child.

Doctors can diagnose CP by looking at the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical background. They may also conduct physical examinations to look for symptoms of the condition. They will look for signs of muscles that are tight and weak in walking and moving, speech and intelligence problems, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can determine that your child has CP if certain risk factors are present. For instance, if a child is born in the breech position, or has difficulties in labor and delivery in which case they are more likely to be diagnosed with CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is increased for babies who are smaller than their gestational age. Birth complications such as infections, high fever, and other conditions that affect the flow of oxygen to the brain can increase the risk of cerebral palsy.

The medicines can aid your child to move better and lessen stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be administered orally, into muscles or in the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. The drugs can also be used to treat seizures and Vimeo.Com other ailments such as epilepsy that are typically associated with gladstone cerebral palsy law firm palsy.

Preventing CP

You can reduce the risk of CP by taking steps to reduce your genetic risk. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal treatment. Address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Also, stay up to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus -- are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

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

Around 75% of those with CP have spastic CP, which makes muscles stiff and tight. Some have only a few affected muscles, while others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects all of their muscles including those on their face and mouth. This type of CP, called spastic hemiplegia can cause a curved back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.

Another common type of CP is dyskinetic CP that results in movement that's slow and twisty, or fast and quick and jerky. You might be drooling and your face or limbs may appear to be in a writhing state. Some people suffering from CP have multiple forms of CP however, each type is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy affects everybody differently and ranges from mild to severe. Certain people suffering from CP need minimal assistance, while others have difficulty moving around and require wheelchairs. Severe cases can lead to spastic quadriplegia.

Children suffering from CP are able to benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve their posture, balance and mobility. Surgery may be needed to fix issues in their bones or joints. They can be afflicted with hearing loss, pain and fatigue as well as excessive drooling and difficulty detecting sensations. Certain sufferers with CP develop depression which is between three and four times more frequent than the general population.

Many adults with CP live at home, take part in community activities, and receive personal assistance. Some may have to make accommodations, bbarlock.com but they can find work. People who have CP are often prematurely aged because their bodies are unable to handle the additional stress.

Even with severe symptoms people with CP can live a fulfilling and happy life. They can have a job, a family, and friends. They can also join local support groups which can help them locate local resources and connect with other people with CP. Financial assistance is available from foundations and organizations to ease the burden for families so they can concentrate on receiving the best care. You may be eligible for compensation if medical carelessness of a healthcare professional resulted in your child's hartford city cerebral palsy law firm paralysis. Review your case for free today to determine if are eligible.