Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy to reduce muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. However, certain medications can cause unwelcome side effects and can create safety hazards, especially when used for a long time.

Surgery isn't a solution for CP however it can to improve mobility and decrease pain. It may also help to reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for those with CP.

Diagnosis

charlestown cerebral palsy attorney PALSY is a category of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles in the arms or legs. The condition appears in infancy or in the early years of childhood and is caused by abnormalities or damage within the brain. The injury could have occurred within the womb, or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not be aware of the exact reason behind the condition.

The doctor will test your child for CP. The doctor will assess the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also track the progress of your baby over time to determine if he is reaching the milestones.

If a doctor suspects something is not right, he could decide to conduct an imaging test. An MRI is the most frequent test, which utilizes magnetic fields to produce clear images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in CP in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound. It makes use of sound waves to create images of the brain and organs in your child's. This test is more appropriate for babies in the very early stages, but it may not be as useful in diagnosing problems associated with CP.

A doctor may refer your child, in addition to an MRI, to a pediatric physiatrist (a specialist doctor who has been trained on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can help provide a more precise diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Each child's CP is different, and they require a unique health care plan. Your family is likely to collaborate with a team of specialists which include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist and child developmental specialist. These specialists will form a treatment group that includes your family and oversee your child's development.

Doctors can determine a diagnosis of CP by looking at the child's symptoms and their history. They will also conduct a physical exam to determine if there are signs and symptoms of the condition, including muscles being weak or tight, difficulty moving or walking as well as issues with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors can identify that your child has CP when certain risk factors are present. For instance, if your child is born in the breech position, Cerebral palsy or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to be diagnosed with CP. Babies who are smaller than their gestational ages also have higher risks. Complications during labor and delivery, including infections, a high fever, and other conditions that hinder the flow of oxygen to brain, can increase your child's chance of developing cerebral palsy.

The medications can help your child move better and lessen stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be taken by mouth, injected into muscles, or added to the fluid around the spinal cord. The use of medicines can also be to control seizures and other ailments, like epilepsy, which can be associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

Although there's no way you can stop the majority of cases of CP that are due to genetics However, you can take steps to help reduce the risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal care. Make sure you address any health issues prior to pregnancy. Also, be up to date on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections, like cytomegalovirus and rubella -- are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP might be slow to learn to sit, crawl, or walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which makes them appear relaxed or loose. They could have a high muscle tone which causes their bodies to appear stiff and rigid. They may show signs of speech problems or seizures, or may favor one side of their body.

Around 75% of those with CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and Cerebral Palsy tight. Some people have only a few muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity, which affects the entire body, including their mouth and face. This type of CP is called spastic hemiplegia and can cause a curved spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty or fast and rapid and jerky. It can make your limbs or face appear to be in a trance, and you could be drooling. Some people with CP have multiple forms of CP, but each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Certain people with CP require minimal assistance, and others have trouble moving and must use wheelchairs. Severe cases can lead to spastic quadriplegia.

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

Many people with CP reside in their homes, participate in activities with the community and receive personal assistance. Some may have to make accommodations, but they are able to find employment. Those with CP are usually prematurely aged as their bodies fight the added stress.

A person suffering from CP can live a fulfilling life even if they have severe symptoms. They may have a job or a family, as well as friends. They can join support groups, which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and locate local resources. Many organizations and foundations offer financial aid to families in order to alleviate the burden so that they can focus on receiving quality care. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused by negligence on the part of a healthcare professional you could be qualified for compensation. Review your case for free today to determine if qualify.