Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help those who suffer from cerebral paralysis decrease muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Certain medicines may cause undesirable side effects or safety hazards particularly when used for long periods of time.
Surgery cannot cure CP however it can improve a person's mobility and reduce pain. It may also help to reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening in people suffering from CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a group of non-progressive disorders that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition can be seen in infancy or in the early years of childhood and is caused by abnormalities or damage within the brain. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not know the exact reason behind the condition.
The doctor will test your child for CP. The doctor will administer the baby a test to determine the strength of his or her muscles as well as reflexes and movements. cerebral palsy attorney broken arrow will also track your baby's development in time to determine whether or not he is making progress towards milestones.
If a doctor suspects that there is something wrong, they can conduct an imaging examination. An MRI is the most popular test that uses magnetic fields and creates detailed images of your child's brain. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another alternative is an ultrasound which makes use of sound waves in order to make images of your baby's brain as well as other organs. This test is more suitable for very young infants however it might not be as accurate in identifying problems with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, doctors may recommend your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with specialized training for spinal disorders for children, nerves, and muscles). These specialists can give an accurate diagnosis and formulate a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Every child's CP is different, and they require specific health plans. Your family could work with a team that includes a neurosurgeon and pediatric neurologist and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and child development specialist. These experts will create a treatment team that includes your family members and supervise your child's progress.
Doctors can diagnose CP by looking at the child's symptoms as well as their medical background. They can also conduct a physical examination to check for symptoms and signs of the condition, like muscle weakness or tightness and difficulty walking or moving, problems with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors can be able to identify that your child has CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. If your child is born in a breech position or has a challenging delivery, for instance they are more likely to CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher in children who are younger than their gestational age. Birth complications such as infections, high fever and other conditions that hinder the flow of blood to the brain, can also increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.
The use of medicines can improve your child's ability to move and lessen pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken through the mouth or injected into muscles or infused into the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord. Medications can also be used to treat seizures as well as other disorders, like epilepsy, which can be associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
You can reduce the chance of developing CP by taking steps to lower your genetic risk. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal care. Make sure you address any health issues prior to pregnancy. Also, keep up to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella or cytomegalovirus have been linked to an increase in cerebral palsy among infants.
Babies with CP are usually slow to master the ability to sit, roll over, roll over, crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia), making them appear sloppy or relaxed. Or they may have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) that makes their bodies feel rigid or stiff. They could show signs of speech difficulties or seizures or favor one side of their body.
The majority of people with CP have spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Some have only a handful of affected muscles, whereas others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects all of their muscles, including those in their face and mouth. This type of CP known as spastic hemoplegia can cause a curved back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different type of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisted, or fast and rapid and jerky. It can make your limbs or face look like they're moving around, and you may drool. Some people suffering from CP have more than one type of CP however each type is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everybody differently, from mild to severe. Certain people with CP require little assistance, while others have difficulty moving and must use wheelchairs. In severe cases, CP may result in full-body paralysis, also known as spastic quadriplegia.
Children suffering from CP can benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve balance, posture and mobility. They may also require surgery to correct any issues with their bones or joints. Hearing loss and fatigue, as well as pain and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Some people with CP suffer from depression, which is more common in the CP population than in the general population.
Many people who have CP reside in their own home, take part in activities for the community and receive personal assistance. Some may need to make accommodations, but they are able to find work. People with CP are typically prematurely aging as their bodies fight the additional stress.
Even with the most severe symptoms, a person with CP can live a fulfilling and happy life. They may have a job, a family, and friends. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with other people suffering from CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is available from foundations and various organizations to alleviate the burden on families so they can concentrate on receiving the best care. If your child's cerebral palsy 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 are eligible.