Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy to reduce the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. But some medicines can have unwanted side effects and create safety hazards, especially when used for long periods of time.

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

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a class of non-progressive disorders that affect movement and posture, including the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition is typically diagnosed in the early stages of the child or in infancy. It is caused by brain damage or other abnormalities. The injury could have occurred during the womb or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors might not be aware of the exact cause.

The first step in making the diagnosis of CP is for your child's physician to examine him or her. The doctor will conduct baby a test that will check the strength of his or her muscles, reflexes, and movements. They will also monitor your baby's progress over time to determine whether he is reaching milestones.

If the doctor suspects there is something wrong, they could decide to conduct an imaging exam. An MRI is the most common test, which uses magnetic fields and produces detailed images of your child's brain. 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 baby's head 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 might refer your child, in addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a child physiatrist (a doctor who has received specialized training in pediatric diseases that affect the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a plan of treatment for your child.

Treatment

Each child has a different CP and needs a distinct plan of care. Your family is likely to collaborate with a team of specialists which include neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and a child developmental specialist. These experts will form an interdisciplinary treatment team along with your family members to track your child's progress.

Doctors are able to diagnose CP based upon the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical history. They may also conduct a physical examination to determine if there are signs and symptoms of the condition, including muscles being weak or tight, difficulty moving or walking or walking, issues with speech and intelligence and abnormal reflexes.

In some cases, doctors may be able determine that your child may develop CP when they identify specific risk factors. For example, if your child is 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 develop CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher for infants who are younger than their gestational age. Birth complications, including infections, a high fever and cerebral palsy other conditions that can hinder the flow of blood to the brain can also increase your child's risk of cerebral palsy attorney palsy.

Medical treatments can aid in improving your child's mobility and decrease pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken via mouth or injected into muscles or added to the fluid around the spinal cord. The use of medicines can also be to manage seizures and other conditions, such as epilepsy that is typically associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

You can reduce the chance of developing CP by taking steps to reduce your genetic risk. If possible, get regular prenatal health check-ups. Examine any health concerns prior to the time of pregnancy. Also, keep up to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl, and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear sloppy or relaxed. They could also have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They could be inclined towards one side of the body or show symptoms of speech issues or seizures.

About 75% of people with CP suffer from spastic CP, which makes muscles stiff and tight. Some people have only some muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity, that affects their entire body, including their mouth and face. This type of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia. It can lead to a curving back (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another common type of CP is dyskinetic CP which results in movement that's slow and twisty as well as quick and rapid and jerky. It can make your legs or face appear as if they're in a trance, and you could drool. Some people who suffer from CP have more than one type of CP however each type is different.

Living with CP

valley city cerebral palsy lawyer Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Some people suffering from CP require minimal assistance, while others are unable to move and must use wheelchairs. The most severe cases 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 balance, posture and mobility. Surgery may be needed to correct problems in their bones or joints. Hearing loss or fatigue, joint pain, and excessive drooling are all possible signs. Certain sufferers with CP develop depression, which is 3 to 4 times more common than the general population.

Many people who have CP live in their own homes, participate in community activities and receive assistance from a personal source. They may also be able to find work however some may have to make accommodations. People with CP are typically prematurely aging because their bodies are unable to handle the added stress.

Even with the most severe symptoms, people with CP can lead an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They may have friends, a family and even a job. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Many foundations and organizations offer financial aid to families to alleviate the burden so that they can focus on receiving the best care possible. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused through medical negligence of the healthcare professional who treated them you may be entitled to compensation. Get a free case review today to determine if you qualify.