Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications can help those with cerebral palsy reduce muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. But some medicines can have undesirable side effects and could create safety hazards, especially when used over a long period of time.

Surgery is not a cure for CP but it can to improve mobility and decrease pain. It may also help to reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for those who suffer from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral dysplasia is a category of non-progressive disorders that affect movement and posture as well as the muscles in the arms and legs. The condition can be seen in infancy or early childhood and is caused by a defect or an abnormality inside the brain. The accident could have occurred in the womb, or just after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not know the exact cause.

The doctor will test your child for CP. The doctor will evaluate the baby's muscles, reflexes, firms and movements. They will also track your baby's growth over time to determine whether he is in line with milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is not right, he could order an imaging test. The most commonly used test is an MRI, which uses magnetic fields to make detailed images of your child's brain and any structures that are within it. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain that are related to CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to make images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is more practical for babies who are very young however it may not be as useful in identifying problems that are connected with CP.

In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, a doctor might refer your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with special training in children's spine diseases muscles, nerves, as well as the muscles). These specialists can aid in providing an precise diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Each child has a different CP, and each needs a distinct plan of care. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists which include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist Physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and child developmental specialist. The experts will form a treatment team which includes your family and oversee your child's progress.

Doctors are able to diagnose CP by looking at the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical history. They will also perform physical examinations to look for indications of the condition. This includes muscles that are tight and weak, difficulty walking or moving speech and intellectual issues and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors may be able determine if your child suffers from CP if certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child is born in the breech position, or has an uneasy labor and birth in which case they are more likely to suffer from CP. The risk of cerebral palsy is also higher for children who are younger than their gestational age. Birth complications such as infections, high fever and other conditions that hinder the flow of oxygen to brain can also increase your child's risk of developing cerebral palsy.

Medical treatments can aid in improving your child's movement and reduce stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles or infused in the spinal cord. They can be used to treat seizures and other ailments like epilepsy, which are frequently associated with cerebral palsy lawsuit palsy.

Preventing CP

You can lower the risk of CP by taking steps to lower your genetic risk. Take regular prenatal care and address health issues prior to becoming pregnant, if you can. Also, stay up-to date on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections -- such as rubella and cytomegalovirus are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear relaxed or soft. Or they might have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) that causes their bodies to appear stiff or rigid. They may exhibit signs of speech difficulties or seizures or favor one side of their body.

About 75% of patients who suffer from CP suffer from spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and firms tight. Some have only a few affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects all their muscles as well as those in their face and mouth. This type of CP, called spastic hemiplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.

Another type of CP is dyskinetic CP which results in movement that's slow and twisty or rapid and quick and jerky. You might be drooling and your limbs or face may appear to be in a writhing state. Some people who suffer from CP have more than one type of CP however, each type is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy affects everyone in a different way with varying degrees of severity, from mild to serious. Some people with CP require little assistance, and others have trouble getting around and need to use wheelchairs. Severe cases of CP may result in full-body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.

Children suffering from CP may benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve their posture, balance and movement. They may also require surgery to correct problems with their bones or joints. They can be afflicted with hearing loss, fatigue and pain and excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Some sufferers with CP develop depression, which is three to four times more common than the general population.

Many adults with CP live at home, engage in community activities and receive personal assistance. They can also find jobs but some may have to adjust their schedules. Those with CP are typically prematurely aging due to their bodies struggling with the extra strain.

Even with the most severe symptoms, the person suffering from CP can lead an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They may have family members, friends and even a job. They can also join local support groups that can help them find local resources and connect with other people who have CP. Many foundations and firms associations offer financial assistance to families in order to alleviate the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving high-quality care. You may be eligible for compensation if medical carelessness of a medical professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Take advantage of a free case review today to determine if can be eligible.