Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy lessen muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. Certain medications can trigger unwanted adverse effects or risk to your safety especially when used over a long period of time.

Surgery is not a cure for CP but it can help increase mobility and ease pain. It can also reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening for people with CP.

Diagnosis

waverly cerebral palsy law firm Palsy is a class of nonprogressive diseases 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 abnormalities in the brain. The injury could have occurred during the womb or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not be able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The doctor will examine your child to diagnose CP. The doctor will administer the baby a test to determine his or her muscle tone and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also monitor the baby's development over time to determine if he is reaching the milestones.

If the doctor suspects there's something wrong, they could conduct an imaging examination. An MRI is the most popular test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child which are associated with CP. Another option is an ultrasound, which makes use of sound waves in order to make images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is more practical for infants who are still very young, but it may not be as useful in detecting problems that are associated with CP.

A doctor might recommend your child, in addition to an MRI, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide a more precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Every child has a different CP and each requires a unique plan of care. Your family is likely to work with a team of specialists which include neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and a child developmental specialist. The experts will create a treatment team that includes your entire family and will oversee your child's progress.

Doctors can determine a diagnosis of CP by looking at your child's history and symptoms. They may also conduct a physical examination to check for signs of the condition. These include muscle weakness and tightness as well as difficulty walking or moving in a straight line, speech and intelligence issues, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can be able to determine that your child is suffering from CP if certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child was born in the breech position, or has an uneasy labor and birth in which case they are more likely to be diagnosed with CP. Babies who 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 interfere with the flow of oxygen to brain can increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.

The use of medicines can improve your child's mobility and decrease pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles, or infused into the spinal cord. The use of medicines can also be to manage seizures and other conditions, such as epilepsy, which is often associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

You can lower the risk of CP by taking steps to reduce the genetic risk. Regularly attend prenatal appointments and address health concerns prior to becoming pregnant, if you can. Also, stay up to the latest on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections, like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP are usually slow to learn to roll over, sit, crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) which makes them appear relaxed or floppy. They could also have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They may be inclined to favor one side of their body or Cerebral palsy exhibit signs of speech problems or seizures.

About 75% of CP patients have spastic CP. This causes muscles to be stiff and tight. Some people only have one or two muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity which affects their entire body, including their mouth and face. This kind of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia and can cause a curved spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is another common type of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and fast and jerky. You might sneeze and your limbs or face might appear to be moving around. Some people with CP may have more than one type of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently. It can be mild or severe. Certain people with CP need minimal assistance, while other individuals have difficulty moving around and must use a wheel chair. In severe cases, it can result in spastic quadriplegia.

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

Many people with CP reside in their own homes, engage in community activities, and receive personal assistance. They may also find work although some may need to make adjustments. Those with CP typically experience premature aging as their bodies struggle to handle extra stress and strain.

Even with severe symptoms, a person with CP can live an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They can have friends, a family and a career. They can also join support groups, which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and organizations to alleviate the burden on families so that they can focus on getting quality care. You may be entitled to compensation if the carelessness of a healthcare professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Take advantage of a free case review today to see if you can be eligible.