Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can assist people with cerebral paralysis reduce muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. But some medicines can have unwelcome side effects and can pose safety risks, especially when used for long periods of time.
Surgery is not a cure for CP however it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It can also help reduce seizures which could be life-threatening to those suffering from CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a group of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement which includes the muscles of the legs and arms. The condition can be seen in infancy or early childhood and is caused by damage or abnormalities within the brain. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors may not be aware of the exact reason behind the condition.
The doctor will examine your child to determine if he or she has CP. The doctor will administer the baby a physical test to assess his or her muscle tone, reflexes, and movements. They will also monitor your baby's growth over time to determine whether or not he is reaching milestones.
If a doctor suspects something is wrong, he can ask for an imaging test. An MRI is the most commonly used test, which utilizes magnetic fields to create precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. An ultrasound test is another option. It uses sound waves to create images of the brain and organs of your child. This test is more convenient for babies who are very young however, it may not be as helpful at diagnosing issues that are associated with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, the doctor could refer your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in children's spinal diseases, nerves, and muscles). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and formulate a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Every child has a different CP, and each needs a distinct plan of care. Your family is likely to collaborate with a team of specialists, including a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and child developmental specialist. These specialists will create a treatment team that includes your family and oversee the development of your child.
Doctors can diagnose of CP by looking at the child's symptoms and their history. They can also conduct an examination of the body to look for indications of the condition. This includes muscle tightness and weakness, difficulty walking or moving or speaking, as well as intelligence and speech issues, and abnormal reflexes.
In some instances, doctors may be able decide that your child will develop CP when they identify certain risk factors. For instance, if your child is born in the breech position or has difficulty in labor and delivery and is more likely to develop CP. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is also higher for infants who are younger than their gestational age. The risk of developing cerebral palsy can be increased by complications during labor and birth. This includes infections, high fevers, and other conditions that interfere with oxygen to the brain.
The medication can aid your child to move better and lessen stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be taken by mouth or injected into muscles or added to the fluid around the spinal cord. The medications can be used to treat seizures and other conditions like epilepsy which are often associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
While there's no way to avoid the majority of cases of CP that are due to genetics however, you can take steps to reduce the risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal health check-ups. Take care of any health issues prior to pregnancy. Also, stay up-to date on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus are associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP might be slow to learn to sit, crawl, and walk. They may have low muscular tone (hypotonia) and, as a result, appear relaxed or floppy. They may have high muscle tone which causes their bodies to feel stiff and rigid. They could show signs of speech problems or seizures or favor one side of their body.
About 75% of people who suffer from CP have spastic CP, which makes muscles tight and stiff. Certain people have just one or two muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity which affects the entire body, including their face and mouth. This kind of CP, called spastic hemiplegia can cause a curved back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different type of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisted, or quick and rapid and jerky. You may drool and your face or limbs might look like they are writhing. Some people who suffer from CP might have more than one form of CP. Each type is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral Palsy affects everyone in a different way with varying degrees of severity, from mild to serious. Certain people suffering from CP need minimal assistance, while others have difficulty getting around and need to use a wheel chair. The most severe cases of CP may lead to full-body paralysis, referred to as spastic quadriplegia.
cerebral palsy lawyer columbia suffering from CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movement. Surgery may be needed to correct issues with their joints or bones. They can experience hearing loss, fatigue and pain as well as excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Some sufferers with CP develop depression, which is three to four times more common than in the general population.
Many people who have CP reside in their own home, take part in activities with the community and receive assistance from a personal source. Some may require accommodations, but they are able to find employment. People with CP tend to experience premature aging as their bodies struggle to cope with extra stress and strain.
A person with CP is able to live a satisfying life even if they have severe symptoms. They can pursue a career and a family as well as friends. They can join support groups, which can allow them to connect with other people with CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and various organizations to alleviate the burden on a family so they can concentrate on obtaining quality treatment. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused through medical negligence of an healthcare professional you may be eligible for compensation. Find out if you are eligible for a free review of your case today.