Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help patients with cerebral paralysis reduce spasticity in muscles, and also increase flexibility. Certain medications may cause undesirable side effects or safety risks especially when used for a long 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 who suffer from CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a collection of non-progressive disorders which affect movement, posture and the muscles of the legs or arms. The condition appears in infancy or early childhood and is caused by damage or abnormalities within the brain. The injury may be occurring while the baby was still in the womb or shortly after birth, although doctors do not always know the exact cause.
The doctor will examine your child to determine if he or she has CP. The doctor will test the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also monitor the baby's development in time to determine if he or she is meeting milestones.
If a doctor suspects there is something is wrong, they can order an imaging exam. The most popular test is an MRI which makes use of magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the brain and any structures within it. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child that are related to CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound which makes use of sound waves in order to create images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is more practical for babies who are very young however it might not be as effective in identifying problems that are connected with CP.
A doctor may send your child, addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a child physiatrist (a doctor who has received specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists can give an accurate diagnosis and devise a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Every child has a unique CP, and each requires a specific plan of care. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists that include neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist and child developmental specialist. These specialists will form a treatment team that includes your entire family and will oversee your child's progress.
Doctors can make a diagnosis of CP in light of your child's history and symptoms. They will also perform a physical examination to check for signs of the condition. This includes muscle weakness and tightness and difficulty walking or moving or speaking, as well as intelligence and speech issues and abnormal reflexes.
In certain instances, doctors may be able in some cases 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 is having difficulty in labor and delivery in which case they are more likely to develop CP. Babies who are small for their gestational age also have higher risks. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and delivery. This includes infections, high fevers, and other conditions which disrupt the flow of oxygen into the brain.
The medication can help your child move better and lessen stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be administered orally, into muscles, or infused into the spinal cord. They can also be used to treat seizures and other ailments like epilepsy which are commonly associated with cerebral paralysis.
Preventing CP
You can reduce the chance of CP by taking steps to reduce the genetic risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal care. Address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Also, be up to date on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus -- are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP tend to be slow to learn how to sit, roll over, roll over and crawl as well as walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear relaxed or floppy. Or they might have high muscle tone (hypertonia) which causes their bodies to appear rigid or stiff. They may show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.
About 75% of people with CP have spastic CP, which makes muscles tight and stiff. Some people have just a few affected muscles, while others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects all their muscles which include those around their face and mouth. This type of CP is called spastic hemiplegia and can lead to a curved spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different type of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisty or fast and jerky. It can make your limbs and face look like they're flailing around, and it can cause you to be drooling. Some people who suffer from CP might have more than one type of CP. Each type is different.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently. It can be mild or severe. Some people with CP need minimal assistance, while other individuals have difficulty getting around and require wheelchairs. cerebral palsy attorneys lauderhill of CP can lead to complete body paralysis, which is known as spastic Quadriplegia.
Children suffering from CP may benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and mobility. Surgery may be required to correct problems in their joints or bones. Hearing loss fatigue, pain, fatigue and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Certain people suffering from CP suffer from depression which is 3 to 4 times more common than in the general population.
Many adults with CP live at home, participate in activities with the community and receive personal assistance. Some may require accommodations, but they are able to find employment. People with CP often face premature ageing due to their bodies struggling to handle extra stress and strain.
A person suffering from CP is able to live a satisfying life even if they have severe symptoms. They can pursue a career, a family, and friends. They can also join support groups which can allow them to connect with other people with CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is offered by foundations and other organizations to ease the burden on families so they can concentrate on receiving quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was triggered through medical negligence of medical professionals you could be eligible for compensation. Take advantage of a free case review now to find out if are eligible.