Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications aid people with cerebral palsy lessen the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. But some medicines can have unwanted side effects, and they can also pose a risk to your safety, particularly when used long-term.

Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can help to improve mobility and decrease pain. It also helps reduce seizures, which are life-threatening to people with CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a collection of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles in the arms or legs. The condition is usually diagnosed in early childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain damage or other abnormalities. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not know the exact cause.

The doctor will examine your child to determine if he or she has CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test that will check the muscle tone and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also monitor your baby's growth as time passes to determine whether he or she is reaching milestones.

If a doctor suspects something is wrong, he may request an imaging test. The most frequent test is an MRI that uses magnetic fields to make detailed images of your child's brain and any structures within it. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child that are connected to CP. An ultrasound test is another option. It uses sound waves to create images of the organs and brains of your child. This test is easier for infants who are very young however it may not be as accurate in identifying issues related to CP.

A doctor may refer your child, addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has received specialized training on pediatric diseases that affect the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide an precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Every child has a unique CP and each child requires a specific plan of care. Your family might work with the help of neurosurgeons and pediatric neurologists as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. The experts will form an interprofessional treatment team along with your family members to track your child's progress.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of CP by looking at your child's symptoms as well as their history. They will conduct a physical exam to determine if there are signs and symptoms of the condition, including muscle weakness or tightness in walking or moving, problems with speech and intelligence and abnormal reflexes.

In some instances, doctors may be able determine that your child is likely to develop CP when they observe certain risk factors. If your child was born with a defect in the uterus or has a difficult delivery, for example they are more susceptible to CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is also higher in children who are younger than their gestational age. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and birth. These include infections, high fevers and other conditions which interfere with oxygen to the brain.

Medical treatments can aid in improving your child's movements and reduce pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be administered orally, into muscles or infused in the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. They can also be used 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 lower the risk of genetic CP. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal treatment. Examine any health concerns prior to the time of pregnancy. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy lawyers (clrobur.com) palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn how to sit, crawl, and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia), making them appear relaxed or floppy. They may have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They might favor one side of their body or show symptoms of speech issues or seizures.

Around 75% of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming tight and stiff. Some people have just a few affected muscles, while others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects all of their muscles including those on their face and mouth. This kind of CP known as spastic hemoplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and jerky. It can make your limbs or face appear to be in a trance, and you could drool. Certain people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each type is different.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy affects people in different ways and ranges from mild to severe. Certain people with CP require little assistance, others are unable to moving around and require a wheel chair. The most severe cases of CP can lead to complete body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. Surgery may be needed to correct problems in their bones or joints. They may be afflicted with hearing loss, fatigue and pain, as well as excessive drooling and difficulty detecting sensations. Certain people with CP experience depression which is more prevalent in the CP population than in the general population.

Many people with CP reside in their home, take part in activities for the community and receive assistance from a personal source. Some may have to make adjustments, but they will find work. People who suffer from CP tend to experience premature ageing as their bodies try to handle the extra stress and strain.

A person with CP can lead a full life even with the most severe symptoms. They can have a family, friends and careers. They can also join local support groups which can help them find local resources and connect with others who have CP. Many organizations and foundations offer financial assistance to families in order to alleviate the burden so that they can focus on getting the best treatment. You may be eligible for compensation if the carelessness of a healthcare professional led to your child's cerebral paralysis. Get a free case review today to see if you can be eligible.