Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications can help those with cerebral paralysis reduce spasticity in muscles, and also increase flexibility. However, certain medications can cause unwelcome side effects and can pose safety risks, especially when used for long periods of time.

Surgery is not a cure for CP however it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It can also help reduce seizures which could be life-threatening to those suffering from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral PALSY is a category of non-progressive disorders that affect posture, movement and the muscles in the arms or legs. The condition is usually diagnosed in the early stages of childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain injury or other abnormalities. The injury may have occurred while the baby was still in the womb, or shortly after birth, but doctors aren't always able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The doctor will assess your child's condition to determine CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test that will check his or her muscle tone as well as reflexes and movements. They will also keep track of the development of your baby over time to determine whether he or she is reaching milestones.

If a doctor suspects there is there's something not right, they might conduct an imaging examination. The most popular test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to produce precise images of your baby's brain and any other structures it contains. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound, that uses sound waves to create images of your baby's brain as well as other organs. This test is more suitable for very young babies, but it may not be as reliable in diagnosing issues that are associated with CP.

In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, a doctor might refer your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with specialized training in spinal disorders for children muscles, nerves, as well as the muscles). 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 needs a distinct plan of care. Your family may be part of a team that includes neurosurgeons and pediatric neurologists as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These specialists will form a treatment team that includes your family members and supervise the development of your child.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of CP based on your child's symptoms as well as their history. They will also conduct a physical examination to look for signs and symptoms of the condition, such as muscles being weak or tight in walking or moving as well as issues with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can identify that your child has CP when certain risk factors are present. If your child is born with a defect in the uterus or has a difficult delivery, for example, they are more prone to CP. Children who are too small for their gestational years also face higher risk. Birth complications such as infections, high fever and other conditions that affect the flow of oxygen to the brain can also increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.

Medical treatments can aid in improving your child's mobility and decrease pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles or in the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. They can also be used to treat seizures as well as other conditions like epilepsy, which are often associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

You can lower the chance of developing CP by taking steps to lower the risk of genetic CP. Make sure you receive regular prenatal visits and address health concerns prior to getting pregnant, if possible. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy law firms palsy in infants.

Babies with CP tend to be slow to learn how to roll over, sit or crawl and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear relaxed or floppy. They may have high muscle tone which causes their bodies to appear stiff and rigid. They might be more inclined to one side of their body or show signs of speech difficulties or seizures.

About 75 percent of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Some people only have a handful of muscles affected while others suffer from severe spasticity which affects the entire body, including their face and mouth. This type of CP is called spastic hemiplegia and can lead to an inclination of the spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is another type of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and rapid and jerky. You might sneeze and your limbs or face might appear to be writhing. Some people who suffer from CP might have more than one form of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy lawyers palsy affects everyone differently, from mild to severe. Certain people suffering from CP require only minimal assistance, others are unable to getting around and require a wheel chair. Extreme cases of CP could lead to total body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.

Children suffering from CP may benefit from occupational, physical and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and movement. They might also need surgery to correct problems with their joints or bones. They can be afflicted with hearing loss, fatigue and pain as well as excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Some people with CP have depression which is more prevalent in the CP population than in the general population.

Many people with CP reside in their own homes, engage in community activities, and receive personal assistance. Some may need to make accommodations, but they can find employment. Those with CP are often prematurely aged due to their bodies struggling with the added stress.

A person with CP can lead a full life even if they have severe symptoms. They can pursue a career or a family, as well as friends. They can also join support groups which can help them connect with other people with CP and find local resources. Numerous foundations and organizations provide financial aid to families to ease the burden so that they can focus on receiving quality care. You could be eligible for compensation if the negligence of a healthcare professional resulted in your child's cerebral paralysis. Take advantage of a free case review now to find out if are eligible.