Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications aid people with cerebral palsy to reduce muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. But some medicines can have unwanted side effects, and they can also create safety hazards, especially when used long-term.

Surgery does not cure CP however it can help improve mobility and ease pain. It can also reduce seizures, which are life-threatening for those with CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a class of non-progressive conditions that affect movement and posture, including the muscles in the arms and legs. The condition is usually diagnosed in early childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain damage or abnormalities. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors may not be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the condition.

The first step to an accurate diagnosis of CP is for your child's doctor to examine him or her. The doctor will give the baby a test to determine the tone of his or her muscles as well as reflexes and movements. They will also keep track of your baby's growth over time to see whether he or she is making progress towards milestones.

If a doctor suspects that there is something wrong, they could request an imaging test. An MRI is the most commonly used test, which utilizes magnetic fields to produce precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in CP in the brain of your child. Another alternative is an ultrasound which makes use of sound waves to make images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is simpler for very young infants however it may not be as accurate in identifying problems with CP.

A doctor might send your child, addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has received specialized training on diseases of children that affect the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can give a more accurate diagnose and develop a plan of treatment for your child.

Treatment

Each child's CP is unique and requires an individual health plan. Your family could work with an expert team, which includes an neurologist and neurosurgeon for children as well as a physical medicine and rehab specialist and a child development specialist. They will form an interdisciplinary treatment team alongside your family to observe your child's progress.

Doctors can diagnose CP on the basis of your child's symptoms and their medical background. They can conduct a physical exam to look for signs and symptoms of the condition, like muscle tightness or weakness, difficulty moving or walking and speech, difficulties with intelligence and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can be able to determine if your child suffers from CP if certain risk factors are present. If your child is born in a breech position or has a challenging delivery, for instance they are more likely to CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy law firm palsy is increased for babies who are smaller than their gestational age. The risk of cerebral palsy can be increased due to complications during labor and birth. These include infections, high fevers and other conditions that interfere with oxygen to the brain.

Medicines can aid in improving your child's ability to move and lessen stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be administered by mouth, injected into muscles, or inject into the fluid around the spinal cord. They can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions, like epilepsy that is typically associated with cerebral palsy law firm palsy.

Preventing CP

You can lower the chance of developing 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, be up to current on vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies who have CP are typically slow to master the ability to sit, roll over, roll over and crawl as well as walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which makes them appear relaxed or loose. They could also have high muscle tone which makes their bodies feel stiff and rigid. They might be more inclined to one side of the body or exhibit signs of speech disorders or seizures.

Around 75% of those who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Some suffer from only a few affected muscles, whereas others have more severe spasticity that affects all their muscles as well as those in their mouth and face. This type of CP is known as spastic hemiplegia and can cause a curved spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another common type of CP is dyskinetic CP that causes movement that's slow and twisty, or fast and jerky. You might get a drool, and your limbs or face might look like they are writhing. Some people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral palsy can affect people differently. It can be severe or mild. Some people with CP require only minimal assistance, others are unable to moving around and require wheelchairs. Extreme cases of CP may lead to full-body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.

Children suffering from CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their posture, balance and movements. Surgery is sometimes required to correct problems in their joints or bones. Hearing loss and fatigue, as well as pain and excessive drooling are all possible symptoms. Certain people suffering from CP suffer from depression which is 3 to 4 times more common than the general population.

Many people with CP live at home, engage in community activities and have personal assistance. Some may need to make accommodations, but they can find employment. People who suffer from CP typically experience premature ageing as their bodies try to handle the extra stress and strain.

Even with the most severe symptoms, the person suffering from CP can lead a fulfilling and happy life. They may have a job and a family as well as friends. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and organizations to ease the burden on a family so they can concentrate on receiving quality care. You may be entitled to compensation if the medical negligence of a healthcare professional led to your child's cerebral paralysis. Request a free case evaluation now to find out if are eligible.