Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help patients with cerebral paralysis lessen muscle spasticity, and increase flexibility. Certain medicines may cause undesirable side effects or safety risks especially when used over a long period of time.
Surgery isn't a cure for CP however it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It can also help reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for those with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is one of the groups of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the arms or legs. The condition is typically diagnosed in early childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain injury or other abnormalities. cerebral palsy lawyer bend could have occurred within the womb or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors may not be able to pinpoint the exact cause.
The doctor will examine your child to diagnose CP. The doctor will test the baby's muscles' tone, reflexes, and movements. They will also track the development of your baby in time to determine whether or not he is reaching milestones.
If a doctor suspects that there is something not right, they might request an imaging test. An MRI is the most popular test, which utilizes magnetic fields and produces precise images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child that are connected to CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to create images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is more suitable for infants with very little development, but may not be as accurate in identifying problems with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, the doctor could recommend your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with special training in children's diseases of the spine and muscles, nerves, or muscles). These specialists will provide a more accurate diagnose and develop a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Each child's CP is different, and they require an individual health plan. Your family might work with an entire team of experts that includes neurosurgeons and pediatric neurologists and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These specialists will create a treatment team that includes your family members and supervise the progress of your child.
Doctors are able to diagnose CP on the basis of your child's symptoms, and their medical background. They can conduct a physical exam to determine if there are symptoms and signs of the condition, including muscle tightness or weakness as well as difficulty walking or moving or walking, issues with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors might be able to determine if your child suffers from CP when certain risk factors are present. If your child was born with a defect in the uterus or has a difficult delivery, for example they are more susceptible to CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is also higher in babies who are smaller than their gestational age. Complications during labor and delivery such as infections, high fever and other conditions that hinder the flow of blood to the brain, may increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.
The medications can help your child move better and lessen stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be administered orally, into muscles, or infused into the fluid surrounding your spinal cord. The drugs can be used to treat seizures and other conditions such as epilepsy commonly associated with cerebral paralysis.
Preventing CP
Although there's no way you can stop the majority of cases of CP that are due to genetics but you can take steps to lower the risk. If possible, get regular prenatal care. Examine any health concerns prior to the time of pregnancy. Make sure you are current on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like rubella or cytomegalovirus have been associated with an increase in cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP tend to be slow to learn to sit, roll over and crawl as well as walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which causes them to appear sluggish or flabby. They may have high muscle tone that makes their bodies feel stiff and rigid. They might favor one side of the body or show signs of speech problems or seizures.
Around 75% of CP patients have spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming stiff and tight. Certain people have just a handful of muscles affected while others suffer from severe spasticity, that affects their entire body, which includes their mouth and face. This kind of CP known as spastic hemoplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty or quick and fast and jerky. It can make your legs or face appear as if they're flailing around, and it can cause you to get a little drooling. Some people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each type is different.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently in severity, ranging from mild to. Some people suffering from CP require only minimal assistance while others struggle to move and must use a wheelchair. In severe cases, CP can lead to complete body paralysis, which is known as spastic Quadriplegia.
Children with CP may benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and mobility. Surgery may be needed to correct problems in their joints or bones. Hearing loss and fatigue, as well as pain and excessive drooling are possible signs. Certain people with CP suffer from depression which is more prevalent in the CP population than in the general population.
Many people with CP reside at home, engage in community activities and have personal assistance. They may also find work although some may need to make accommodations. People who suffer from CP often face premature aging as their bodies struggle to cope with extra stress and strain.
A person suffering from CP is able to live a satisfying life even with the most severe symptoms. They can have a job as well as a family and friends. They can also join support groups, which can help them connect with other people who have CP and find local resources. Many foundations and associations offer financial assistance to families in order to alleviate the burden so that they can focus on receiving the best care possible. If your child's cerebral paralysis was caused due to medical negligence by an healthcare professional you could be qualified for compensation. Find out if you're eligible for a complimentary review of your case today.