Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications help people with cerebral palsy reduce the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. Certain medications may cause undesirable side effects or safety risks particularly when used for long periods of time.
Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can increase mobility and ease pain. It also helps reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening for those with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is one of the groups of non-progressive conditions that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the legs or arms. The condition is typically diagnosed in early childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain damage or other abnormalities. The injury may be occurring while the baby was still in the womb, or shortly after birth, though doctors do not always know the exact cause.
The first step to a diagnosis of CP is the doctor who treats your child to examine him or her. The doctor will test the baby's muscles, reflexes, and movements. They will also monitor your baby's development in time to determine whether he or she is in line with milestones.
If the doctor suspects there's something wrong, they can conduct an imaging examination. An MRI is the most common test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes related to CP in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to make images of your baby's brain as well as other organs. This test is more suitable for babies in the very early stages however it might not be as reliable in diagnosing problems associated with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, the doctor could refer your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with special training in children's spine diseases muscles, nerves, as well as the muscles). These specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your child.
Treatment
Every child has a unique CP, and each requires a specific treatment plan. Your family may be part of an expert team, which includes an neurologist and neurosurgeon for children as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These experts will form an interdisciplinary treatment team with your family to monitor your child's development.
Doctors can diagnose of CP in light of your child's symptoms and history. They can also conduct a physical examination to check for signs of the condition. This includes muscles that are tight and weak and difficulty walking or moving, speech and intelligence problems and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors might be able to identify that your child has CP if certain risk factors are present. If your child was born breech or has a difficult delivery, for instance they are more likely to CP. Babies that are small for their gestational age also have higher risk. The complications that can arise during labor and delivery, including infections, a high fever, and other conditions that can hinder oxygen flow to the brain, may increase your child's risk of cerebral palsy.
The medication can aid your child to improve their mobility and reduce stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken through the mouth or injected into muscles or infused into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. Medications can also be used to treat seizures as well as other disorders, like epilepsy, that often develop with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
You can reduce the chance of CP by taking steps to lower the risk of genetic CP. Make sure you receive regular prenatal visits and address health concerns prior to becoming pregnant, if that's possible. Keep up-to-date with your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus are linked to an increase in cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP are usually slow to learn how to sit, roll over, crawl and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which makes them appear relaxed or soft. Or they may have high muscle tone (hypertonia) that makes their bodies feel stiff or rigid. They might show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or may favor one side of their body.
About 75% of people who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Some sufferers have only a handful of muscles affected while others suffer from severe spasticity that affects their entire body, which includes their face and mouth. cerebral palsy attorneys fishers of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia, and it can cause an inclination of the spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.
Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP which results in movement that's slow and twisty or rapid and jerky. It can make your legs or face look like they're in a trance, and you could drool. Some people suffering from CP have multiple forms of CP but each one is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently and ranges from mild to severe. Some people suffering from CP require minimal assistance, while others are unable to move and must use a wheelchair. A severe case can result in the body becoming completely paralyzed, a condition known as spastic quadriplegia.
Children with CP might benefit from speech, physical and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. They may also require surgery to correct any issues with their bones or joints. They may suffer from hearing loss, fatigue and pain as well as excessive drooling and difficulty feeling sensations. Certain sufferers with CP suffer from depression which is 3 to 4 times more common than in the general population.
Many people with CP live at home, take part in community activities and have personal assistance. They may also find work, though some may need to adjust their schedules. People with CP are often prematurely aged because their bodies are unable to handle the added stress.
Even with the most severe symptoms, people with CP can live a fulfilling and happy life. They can have friends, a family and even a job. They can also join support groups, which can help them connect with other people who have CP and find local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and other organizations to alleviate the burden on families so that they can concentrate on receiving the best care. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused due to medical negligence by medical professionals, you may be qualified for compensation. Find out if you are eligible for a free evaluation of your case today.