Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications can help those with cerebral palsy decrease the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. However, certain medications can cause unwanted side effects and present safety risks, particularly when used over a long period of time.

Surgery cannot cure CP however it can improve a person's mobility and ease pain. It may also help to reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for people suffering from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a class of non-progressive disorders that affect posture and movement which includes the muscles of the legs and arms. The condition is typically diagnosed early in infanthood or during infancy. It is caused by brain injuries or abnormalities. The injury may be occurring while the baby was still in the womb, or shortly after birth, although doctors aren't always able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The doctor will assess your child's condition to determine CP. The doctor will test the baby's muscles, reflexes, and movements. They will also keep track of your baby's development over time to see if he or she is in line with milestones.

If the doctor suspects something is wrong, they may order an imaging exam. The most common test is an MRI which makes use of magnetic fields to make detailed images of your child's brain as well as any structures inside it. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another alternative is an ultrasound which uses sound waves to create images of your baby's brain and other organs. This test is more convenient for babies who are very young however it might not be as helpful at detecting problems that are associated with CP.

In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, doctors may recommend your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with specialized training in children's spinal diseases, nerves, and muscles). These specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a plan for treatment for your child.

Treatment

Every child has a unique CP, and each requires a specific plan of care. Your family may work with the help of an neurologist and neurosurgeon for vimeo children along with physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These specialists will form an inter-disciplinary treatment team along with your family members to track your child's development.

Doctors are able to diagnose CP by looking at your child's symptoms, and their medical background. They may also conduct physical examinations to look for signs of the condition. They will look for signs of muscle tightness and weakness and difficulty walking or moving, speech and intelligence problems, and abnormal reflexes.

In some cases, doctors may be able to determine that your child is likely to develop CP if they see certain risk factors. For example, if your child was born in the breech position, or has an uneasy labor and birth or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to have CP. Babies who are smaller than their gestational age also have greater risk. Birth complications 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.

The medications can help your child move better and reduce stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be administered by mouth, injected into muscles, or infused into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. The drugs can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions like epilepsy, which are commonly associated with cerebral paralysis.

Preventing CP

Although there's no way you can avoid the majority of cases of CP that are linked to genetics, you can take steps to help lower the risk. Take regular prenatal care and address health concerns prior to becoming pregnant, if it is possible. Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl, or walk. They may have low muscular tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear relaxed or floppy. Or they might have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) which makes their bodies feel rigid or stiff. They could be inclined towards one side of the body or show signs of speech problems or seizures.

About 75% of patients who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP, which makes muscles stiff and tight. Some have only a handful of affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects their entire muscles as well as those in their face and mouth. This type of CP, called spastic hemiplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP that results in movement that's slow and twisty, or fast and jerky. It can make your limbs or face appear as if they're writhing, and you might drool. Some people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each type is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy affects people in different ways and ranges from mild to severe. Some people suffering from CP require minimal assistance, and others have trouble moving and must use a wheelchair. Severe cases of CP could lead to total body paralysis, which is known as spastic Quadriplegia.

Children with CP can benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve balance, posture and movement. Surgery is sometimes required to correct problems in their bones or joints. They can suffer from hearing loss, pain and fatigue along with excessive drooling, Vimeo and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Some people with CP experience depression, which is more common in the CP population than in the general public.

Many people who have CP reside in their own homes, participate in community activities and Vimeo receive individual assistance. Some may need to make adjustments, but they will find employment. People with CP are often prone to premature ageing due to their bodies struggling to deal with stress and strain.

Even with severe symptoms those suffering from CP is able to live a fulfilling and happy life. They can have family members, friends and a career. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with other people who have CP and find local resources. Numerous foundations and organizations provide financial assistance to families to ease the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving high-quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy attorney paralysis was caused by medical negligence from the healthcare professional who treated them you may be entitled to compensation. Find out if you're eligible for a free evaluation of your case today.