Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy lessen the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. Certain medicines may cause undesirable side effects or safety risks, particularly when used long-term.
Surgery is not a cure for CP but it can increase mobility and ease pain. It can also decrease seizures, which are life-threatening to people with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral dysplasia is a category of non-progressive disorders that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition can be seen in infancy or early childhood and is caused by damage or anomalies inside the brain. The injury could have occurred during the womb or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors may not be aware of the exact cause.
The doctor will assess your child's condition to determine CP. The doctor will test the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also monitor your baby's growth over time to determine if he's in line with the milestones.
If a doctor suspects that something is wrong, they may request an imaging test. The most commonly used test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to create detailed images of your baby's brain and any structures that are within it. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain which are associated with CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to create images of your baby's brain and other organs. This test is simpler for very young infants however it may not be as reliable in identifying problems with CP.
A doctor may refer your child, addition to an MRI and a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor with special training on diseases of children that affect the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide a more accurate diagnose and develop a plan of treatment for your child.
Treatment
Each child's CP is different and requires a unique health care plan. Your family could work with a team that includes a neurosurgeon and pediatric neurologist along with a physical medicine and rehab specialist and child development specialist. These specialists will form an interprofessional treatment team alongside your family to observe your child's progress.
Doctors can diagnose CP on the basis of the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical history. They will also conduct a physical examination to check for symptoms and signs of the condition, such as muscle tightness or weakness in walking or moving and speech, difficulties with intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.
Doctors can be able to determine if your child suffers from CP if certain risk factors are present. For instance, if a child is born in the breech position, or has a difficult labor and delivery or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to suffer from CP. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is also higher in babies younger than their gestational age. Complications during labor and delivery, including infections, a high fever and other conditions that interfere with the flow of oxygen to brain, can increase your child's chance of cerebral palsy.
The medicines can help your child move better and lessen stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken by mouth, injected into muscles, or added to the fluid around the spinal cord. These medications can also be used to treat seizures and other disorders, like epilepsy, that often develop with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
You can lower the chance of CP by taking steps to lower the risk of genetic CP. If possible, get regular prenatal care. Address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Keep up-to-date with your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella -- are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies who have CP tend to be slow to learn how to sit, roll over, roll over or crawl, and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which causes them to appear relaxed or floppy. They might have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They may be inclined to favor one side of the body or exhibit signs of speech disorders or seizures.
About 75 percent of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming stiff and tight. Certain people have just one or two muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity, which affects their entire body, which includes their mouth and face. This kind of CP, called spastic hemiplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.
Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP that causes movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and quick and jerky. You may drool and your limbs or face might look like they are writhing. Some people who suffer from CP have multiple forms of CP however each type is different.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Certain people with CP require only minimal assistance, while others struggle to move and require wheelchairs. Extreme cases of CP may result in full-body paralysis, which is known as spastic Quadriplegia.
Children with CP may benefit from occupational, physical and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and mobility. They may also require surgery to correct problems with their joints or bones. They may suffer from hearing loss, pain and fatigue, as well as excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Certain people with CP suffer from depression, which is more common in the CP population than in the general public.
Many adults with CP live in their homes, take part in activities for the community and receive individual assistance. They can also find employment, though some may need to make accommodations. People with CP are often prone to premature ageing as their bodies struggle to handle the extra stress and strain.
Even with the most severe symptoms, people with CP can live an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They can have a family, friends and even a job. cerebral palsy law firm kansas city can also join support groups which can allow them to connect with other people suffering from CP and locate local resources. Many foundations and organizations offer financial aid to families to ease the burden so that they can focus on getting the best treatment. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on through medical negligence of a healthcare professional you may be qualified for compensation. Find out if you are eligible for a complimentary review of your case today.