Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can assist people with cerebral paralysis lessen spasticity in muscles, and also increase flexibility. But some medicines can have unwelcome side effects and can pose safety risks, especially when used for long periods of time.
Surgery isn't a cure for CP however it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It can also help reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for those suffering from CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a collection of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the legs or arms. The condition is usually diagnosed in the early stages of the child or in infancy. It is caused by brain damage or other abnormalities. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not know the exact cause.
The first step in making diagnosing CP is that your child's doctor examine him or her. The doctor will assess the baby's muscles, reflexes, and movements. They will also monitor your baby's progress over time to determine if he is attaining milestones.
If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, they may ask for an imaging test. The most common test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to produce detailed images of your baby's brain and any structures that are within it. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child which are associated with CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound which uses sound waves to make images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is more suitable for babies in the very early stages however it may not be as reliable in detecting problems that are associated with CP.
A doctor might refer your child, in addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a child physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on diseases of children that affect the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide a more accurate diagnose and develop a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Every child's CP is different, and they require an individual health plan. Your family will likely work with a team of specialists which include neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists, physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and child developmental specialist. The experts will create a treatment team that includes your entire family, and oversee the progress of your child.
Doctors are able to make a diagnosis of CP depending on the child's symptoms and their history. They can conduct a physical exam to identify symptoms and signs of the condition, such as muscle tightness or weakness in walking or moving, problems with speech and intelligence and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors can be able to 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 a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to suffer from CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher for infants who are younger than their gestational age. The complications that can arise during labor and delivery, including infections, a high fever and other conditions that interfere with oxygen flow to the brain can increase your child's chance of cerebral palsy.
The use of medicines can improve your child's movement and reduce pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken via mouth, injected into muscles, or inject into the fluid around the spinal cord. These medications can also be used to control seizures and other conditions, such as epilepsy, which can be associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
Although there's no way for you to keep a person from developing CP, which are related to genetics but you can take steps to lower the risk. Regularly attend prenatal appointments and address health issues prior to becoming pregnant, if it is possible. Also, keep up to the latest on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are associated with an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP may be slow to learn how to sit, crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear relaxed or floppy. They could have a high muscle tone which causes their bodies to feel stiff and rigid. They could show signs of speech problems or seizures, or they may prefer one side of their body.
About 75% of people who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP, which makes muscles tight and stiff. Some have only a few affected muscles, whereas others have more severe spasticity, which affects all their muscles, including those in their face and mouth. This kind of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia and can lead to an inclination of the spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.
Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP that results in movement that's slow and twisty or rapid and quick and jerky. You might be drooling and your limbs or face may appear to be in a writhing state. Some people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each form is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everybody differently, from mild to severe. Some individuals with CP require only minimal assistance while others struggle to move and require wheelchairs. Extreme cases of CP may lead to full-body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.
Children suffering from CP are able to benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and mobility. They may also require surgery to correct problems with their joints or bones. They may experience hearing loss, fatigue and pain along with excessive drooling as well as difficulty in feeling sensations. cerebral palsy attorney kenner with CP develop depression, which is three to four times more frequent than the general population.
Many people with CP live at home, engage in community activities, and receive personal assistance. They may also be able to find work however some may have to adjust their schedules. People with CP typically experience premature ageing as their bodies struggle to cope with extra stress and strain.
A person suffering from CP can lead a full life even with the most severe symptoms. They can have a career and a family as well as friends. They can join support groups, which can allow them to connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and organizations to ease the burden on families so that they can concentrate on receiving the best care. You may be eligible for compensation if the negligence of a healthcare professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Find out if qualified for a no-cost review of your case today.