Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help those with cerebral paralysis lessen muscle spasticity and improve 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 however it can improve a person's mobility and reduce pain. It also helps reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening for those with CP.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a group of nonprogressive disorders that affect movement and posture as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition is usually diagnosed in early the child or in infancy. It is caused by brain injuries or abnormalities. The injury could have occurred in the womb, or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not know the exact reason behind the condition.
The doctor will examine your child to diagnose CP. The doctor will assess the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also keep track of your baby's growth as time passes to determine whether he or she is reaching milestones.
If a doctor suspects that there is something wrong, they may request an imaging test. The most commonly used test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to make detailed images of your baby's brain and any other structures it contains. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain which are associated with CP. Another option is an ultrasound, that uses sound waves to create images of your baby's head and other organs. This test is easier for infants with very little development, but may not be as accurate in identifying problems with CP.
A doctor could recommend your child, in addition to an MRI and a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor with special training on pediatric diseases that affect the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for your child.
Treatment
Every child has a different CP and requires a specific treatment plan. Your family is likely to work with a team of specialists, which includes neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist, and child developmental specialist. These specialists will form a treatment group that includes your family and oversee the development of your child.
Doctors can make a diagnosis of CP by looking at your child's history and symptoms. They will also perform an examination of the body to look for indications of the condition. They will look for signs of muscle tightness and weakness and difficulty walking or moving, speech and intelligence problems and abnormal reflexes.
In some instances, a doctor may be able determine that your child will develop CP in the event that they notice certain risk factors. For instance, if a child is born in the breech position or has difficulty in labor and delivery, they are more likely to be diagnosed with CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is higher for children who are younger than their gestational age. The risk of cerebral palsy can be increased due to complications during labor and birth. These include infections, high fevers, and other conditions which affect the flow of oxygen to brain.
The medications can help your child improve their mobility and reduce stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles, or infused into the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. These medications can also be used to treat seizures and other disorders, like epilepsy that is typically associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
Although there's no way for you to avoid the majority of cases of CP that are linked to genetics however, you can take steps to reduce the risk. Make sure you receive regular prenatal visits and address health issues prior to becoming pregnant, if that's possible. Be up-to-date on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl, or walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which makes them appear relaxed or floppy. Or they might have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) that makes their bodies feel rigid or stiff. They might show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or may favor one side of their body.
About 75 percent of CP patients have 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 the entire body, including their mouth and face. This kind of CP is known as spastic hemoplegia and can lead to an inclination of the spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisty or quick and fast and jerky. It can make your legs or face look like they're moving around, and you may get a little drooling. Some people who suffer from CP have multiple forms of CP but each one is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently and ranges from mild to severe. Certain people with CP require only minimal assistance while others have difficulty moving and require wheelchairs. The most severe cases can lead to spastic quadriplegia.
Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. Surgery may be needed to correct issues with their bones or joints. Hearing loss or fatigue, joint pain, and excessive drooling are possible symptoms. Certain people with CP suffer from depression that is more prevalent in the CP population than in the general public.
Many people with CP live at home, engage in community activities and have personal assistance. They may also be able to find work although some may need to adjust their schedules. Those with CP are usually prematurely aged because their bodies are unable to handle the extra strain.
A person suffering from CP can live a fulfilling life, even with severe symptoms. They can have friends, a family and careers. They can also join support groups which can help them connect with other people suffering from CP and find local resources. Many foundations and organizations offer families financial assistance in order to alleviate the burden so that they can focus on receiving quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on by medical negligence from the healthcare professional who treated them you could be qualified for compensation. Find out if cerebral palsy lawyer lakeland are eligible for a free review of your case today.