Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help people with cerebral paralysis reduce muscle spasticity, and increase flexibility. However, certain medications can cause unwelcome side effects and can create safety hazards, especially when used for long periods of time.
Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can help improve mobility and reduce pain. It can also reduce seizures, which are life-threatening to people with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral dysplasia is a category of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition is present in infants or in the early years of childhood and is caused by damage or anomalies in the brain. The injury could have occurred within the womb or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not be aware of the exact reason behind the condition.
The doctor will assess your child's condition to determine CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test to determine his or her muscle tone and reflexes as well as movements. They will also keep track of your baby's growth over time to determine if he is in line with milestones.
If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, he can order an imaging test. An MRI is the most frequent test, which uses magnetic fields and creates precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain that are related to CP. An ultrasound is another option. It uses sound waves to create images of your child's brain and organs. This test is more practical for babies in the very early stages however it may not be as helpful at identifying problems that are connected with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, a doctor might recommend your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in children's spine diseases, nerves, and muscles). These specialists can help provide a more precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.
Treatment
Each child has a different CP and requires a specific treatment plan. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists, including a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and a child developmental specialist. These experts will form a treatment group that includes your entire family, and oversee your child's progress.
Doctors can determine a diagnosis of CP based on your child's symptoms and history. They can conduct a physical exam to determine if there are signs and symptoms of the condition, including muscle weakness or tightness, difficulty moving or walking as well as issues with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors can determine that your child is suffering from CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. If your child was born with a defect in the uterus or has a difficult delivery, for instance they are more susceptible to CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is also higher for infants who are younger than their gestational age. The risk of cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and birth. These include infections, high fevers and other conditions that interfere with oxygen to the brain.
Medicines can aid in improving your child's movement and reduce pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be administered by mouth or injected into muscles or inject into the fluid around 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
While there's no way to keep a person from developing CP, which are related to genetics However, you can take steps to help reduce the risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal medical attention. Examine any health concerns prior to the time of pregnancy. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like cytomegalovirus and rubella are associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP may be slow to learn how to sit, crawl, and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear relaxed or soft. Or they might have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) which causes their bodies to appear rigid or stiff. They could show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.
Around cerebral palsy attorneys bend of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming stiff and tight. Some suffer from only a few affected muscles, while others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects all their muscles as well as those in their mouth and face. This type of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia and can cause a curved spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.
Another type of CP is dyskinetic CP, which causes movement that's slow and twisty, or fast and rapid and jerky. You might sneeze and your limbs or face might look like they are moving around. Certain people with CP may have more than one type of CP. Each type is different.
Living with CP
Cerebral Palsy affects everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Certain people suffering from CP require only minimal assistance, while other individuals have difficulty getting around and require a wheel chair. In severe cases, CP can lead to complete body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.
Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movement. Surgery may be required to correct issues with their bones or joints. They can experience hearing loss, pain and fatigue as well as excessive drooling and difficulty feeling sensations. Certain people with CP suffer from depression, which is more common in the CP population than in the general public.
Many adults with CP live at home, participate in community activities and receive personal assistance. Some may need to make accommodations, but they are able to find employment. People who have CP tend to be prematurely old because their bodies are unable to handle the extra strain.
Even with severe symptoms people with CP is able to live an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They may have a job as well as a family and friends. They can also join support groups which can help them connect with other people suffering from CP and locate local resources. Many foundations and associations offer families financial assistance to ease the burden so that they can focus on receiving high-quality care. You may be entitled to compensation if medical carelessness of a healthcare professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Review your case for free today to see if you can be eligible.