Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help patients who suffer from cerebral paralysis decrease muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Some medicines can cause unwanted side effects or safety risks especially when used over a long period of time.
Surgery isn't a cure for CP but it can help improve mobility and lessen pain. It also helps reduce seizures, which are life-threatening to people with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral dysplasia is a category of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement and posture, including the muscles of the arms and legs. The condition is typically diagnosed in the early years of childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain damage or abnormalities. The injury 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 test your child for CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test that will check his or her muscle tone and reflexes as well as movements. They will also keep track of the baby's development over time to determine if he is reaching milestones.
If a doctor suspects that there is something wrong, they could request an imaging test. An MRI is the most popular test that utilizes magnetic fields and creates detailed images of your child's brain. The MRI can detect changes related to CP in the brain of your child. An ultrasound 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, but it may not be as helpful at diagnosing problems associated with CP.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound, your doctor may recommend your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in children's spine diseases and muscles, nerves, or muscles). These specialists can provide a more precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.
Treatment
Every child has a unique CP and requires a different plan of care. Your family will likely work with a team of specialists that include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and a child developmental specialist. These specialists will form a treatment team that includes your entire family, and oversee the progress of your child.
Doctors can determine a diagnosis of CP by looking at your child's history and symptoms. They can also conduct an examination of the body to look for symptoms of the condition. These include muscle tightness and weakness in walking and moving or speaking, as well as intelligence and speech issues and abnormal reflexes.
In some cases, doctors might be able to determine that your child will develop CP when they identify certain risk factors. For example, if your child was born in the breech position, or has difficulty in labor and delivery and is more likely to suffer from CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher in babies who are smaller than their gestational age. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and birth. This includes infections, high fevers, and other conditions which affect the flow of oxygen to brain.
The medications can aid your child to move better and lessen stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken through the mouth or injected into muscles or added to the fluid around the spinal cord. These medications can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions like epilepsy which are commonly associated with cerebral paralysis.
Preventing CP
You can reduce the chance of developing CP by taking steps to reduce the genetic risk. Regularly attend prenatal appointments and address health issues before becoming pregnant, if that's possible. Be up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like rubella or cytomegalovirus, are linked to an increase in cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP are often slow to learn to sit up, roll over or crawl and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear relaxed or floppy. Or they may have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) which causes their bodies to feel rigid or stiff. They may be inclined to favor one side of their body or exhibit symptoms of speech issues or seizures.
Around 75 percent of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming stiff and tight. Some people have only one or two muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity, which affects their entire body, including their face and mouth. This kind of CP is called spastic hemiplegia, and it can cause an inclination of the spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.
Another common type of CP is dyskinetic CP, which causes movement that's slow and twisty, or fast and quick and jerky. It can make your limbs or face appear as if they're in a trance, and you could feel like you're drooling. Certain people with CP may have more than one form of CP. Each type is different.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently and ranges from mild to severe. Certain people suffering from CP need minimal assistance, while other individuals have difficulty moving around and require a wheel chair. A severe case can result in spastic quadriplegia.
cerebral palsy law firm buena park with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. Surgery may be required to correct issues with their joints or bones. They can suffer from hearing loss, fatigue and pain along with excessive drooling and difficulty detecting sensations. Certain people suffering from CP suffer from depression, which is 3 to 4 times more frequent than the general population.
Many adults with CP live in their homes, take part in activities for the community and receive individual assistance. They can also find jobs although some may need to make accommodations. People with CP are typically prematurely aging due to their bodies struggling with the extra strain.
Even with severe symptoms, a person with CP can lead an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They can have a career as well as a family and friends. They can also join support groups, which can allow them to connect with others suffering from CP and find local resources. Financial assistance is offered by foundations and other organizations to alleviate the burden on families so they can concentrate on receiving quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on by medical negligence from an healthcare professional you could be entitled to compensation. Take advantage of a free case review today to see if you qualify.