Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications aid people with cerebral palsy reduce muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Some medicines can cause unwanted negative side effects or even safety risks especially when used over a long period of 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

Cerebral palsy is a group of non-progressive disorders that affect posture and movement which includes the muscles of the arms and legs. The condition is present in infants or in the early years of childhood and is caused by damage or anomalies in the brain. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors may not be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the condition.

The doctor will assess your child's condition to determine CP. The doctor will give the baby a test to check the tone of his or her muscles and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also monitor your baby's growth over time to see whether or not he is in line with milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, they may decide to conduct an imaging test. The most commonly used test is an MRI, which uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images of your child's brain and any other structures it contains. The MRI can detect changes in CP in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of your baby's head and other organs. This test is more practical for very young babies, but it may not be as useful in identifying problems that are connected with CP.

A doctor may refer your child, in addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists can assist in providing a more precise diagnosis and create an appropriate treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Every child has a different CP and each child requires a specific plan of care. Your family is likely to collaborate with a team of specialists that include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and child developmental specialist. They will form an inter-disciplinary treatment team along with your family members to track your child's progress.

Doctors can diagnose CP based upon the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical background. They will also conduct a physical examination to look for 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 cases, doctors may be able in some cases to determine that your child may develop CP if they see specific risk factors. If your child is born in a breech position or has a challenging delivery, for instance they are more susceptible to CP. The risk of having madisonville cerebral palsy lawsuit palsy is increased for babies who are smaller than their gestational age. The complications that can arise during labor and delivery, including infections, a high fever and other conditions that can hinder the flow of oxygen to the brain can also increase your child's risk of developing amherst cerebral palsy lawyer palsy.

Medicines can aid in improving your child's mobility and decrease pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken by mouth or injected into muscles or infused into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. Medications can also be used to treat seizures as well as other conditions, like epilepsy that is typically associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

While there's no way to prevent most cases of CP that are due to genetics but you can take steps to reduce the risk. Take regular prenatal care and address health issues prior becoming pregnant, if that's possible. Be up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl, and walk. They may have low muscular tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear sloppy or relaxed. It is possible that they have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) that makes their bodies feel rigid or stiff. They could be inclined towards one side of their body or exhibit symptoms of speech issues or seizures.

About 75% of people who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Some suffer from only a few affected muscles, whereas others have more severe spasticity that affects all of their muscles including those on their mouth and face. This kind of CP is called spastic hemiplegia and can lead to an unnaturally curving spine (scoliosis) or trouble swallowing.

Dyskinetic CP is another type of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisted, or quick and jerky. You might get a drool, and your face or limbs might appear to be wobbling. Certain people with CP may have more than one type of CP. Each type is different.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy affects everyone in a different way with varying degrees of severity, from mild to serious. Certain people with CP require only minimal assistance and others have trouble moving and require a wheelchair. Extreme cases of CP could lead to total body paralysis, which is known as spastic Quadriplegia.

Children with CP may benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve their posture, balance and movement. Surgery may be needed to correct issues with their joints or bones. Hearing loss, fatigue, pain, and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Certain sufferers with CP develop depression, which is between three and four times more frequent than the general population.

Many adults with CP live at home, take part in community activities and receive personal assistance. Some may have to make accommodations, but they can find employment. People with CP often face premature aging as their bodies struggle to handle extra stress and strain.

Even with the most severe of symptoms, the person suffering from CP can lead a fulfilling and happy life. They can have a job or a family, as well as friends. They can also join support groups which can allow them to connect with other people who have CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is offered by various organizations and foundations to ease the burden on families so they can focus on getting quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on due to medical negligence by the healthcare professional who treated them You may be eligible for compensation. Find out if you're qualified for a no-cost review of your case today.