Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people with cerebral palsy decrease muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. But certain medicines may cause unwelcome side effects and can pose safety risks, especially when used for a long time.

Surgery isn't a cure for CP but it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It may also help to reduce seizures, which could be life-threatening to those who suffer from CP.

Diagnosis

atlantic beach cerebral palsy attorney Palsy is one of the groups of non-progressive conditions that affect posture, movement and the muscles in the legs or arms. The condition is present in infants or in the early years of childhood and is caused by damage or anomalies within the brain. The injury could have occurred during the womb, or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors might not be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the condition.

The doctor will test your child for CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test to check the strength of his or her muscles and reflexes, as well as 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 something is wrong, he may order an imaging test. The most commonly used test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to produce detailed images of your child's brain and any other structures it contains. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain that are related to CP. Another option is an ultrasound, that uses sound waves to create images of your baby's head and other organs. This test is more appropriate for very young babies however, it may not be as useful in detecting problems that are associated 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 children's spine diseases muscles, nerves, and muscles). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and create a plan for treatment for your child.

Treatment

Each child's CP is different and requires specific health plans. Your family could work with an entire team of experts that includes an neurologist and neurosurgeon for children and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These specialists will form a treatment team that includes your family members and supervise your child's progress.

Doctors can diagnose CP based upon the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical background. They also conduct an examination to look for indications of the condition. These may include muscle weakness and tightness in walking and moving, speech and intelligence problems and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can be able to determine that your child has CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. For instance, if a child is born in the breech position or has difficulty in labor and delivery or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to develop CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is increased for children who are younger than their gestational age. Complications during labor and delivery such as infections, high fever and other conditions that interfere with the flow of oxygen to brain, can also increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.

Medicines can aid in improving your child's movements and reduce stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken through the mouth, injected into muscles, or infused into the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord. These medications can also be used to treat seizures and other disorders, like epilepsy, which can be associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

You can reduce the chance of CP by taking steps to reduce your genetic risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal care. Make sure you address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- such as rubella and cytomegalovirus are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies who have CP are often slow to learn how to sit, roll over or crawl, and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear sluggish or flabby. They could also have high muscle tone, which makes their bodies feel stiff and rigid. They may show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.

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

Dyskinetic CP is another common type of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty or quick and jerky. It can make your limbs and face look like they're writhing, and you might be drooling. Some people who suffer from CP have more than one type of CP, but each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be mild or severe. Some individuals with CP require only minimal assistance, and others have trouble moving and require wheelchairs. In severe cases, CP may result in full-body paralysis, referred to as spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP might benefit from speech, physical and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. They might also need surgery to correct problems with their joints or bones. Hearing loss and fatigue, as well as pain and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Some people suffering from CP suffer from depression, which is three to four times more common than the general population.

Many people with CP live in their homes, take part in activities with the community and receive assistance from a personal source. They may also be able to find work but some may have to make accommodations. Those with CP are usually prematurely aged due to their bodies struggling with the extra stress.

A person suffering from CP can live a fulfilling life even with severe symptoms. They can have a job, a family, and friends. They can also join local support groups that will help them find local resources and connect with others who have CP. Many foundations and organizations offer families financial assistance to ease the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving high-quality care. You may be eligible for compensation if the medical carelessness of a healthcare professional resulted in your child's eustis cerebral palsy attorney paralysis. Find out if you are eligible for a free review of your case today.